A powerful plea for funding to combat food insecurity took center stage at the Clearwater Neighborhood & Affordable Housing Advisory Board meeting on April 9, 2024. Denise, the vice chairman of 3 60 Eats, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing food waste and hunger, passionately advocated for a $50,000 public services grant to support their mission in the community.

3 60 Eats has emerged as a vital resource in Clearwater, particularly in the North Greenwood area, which faces a staggering poverty rate of 45%. The organization operates a food truck that provides nutritious meals free of charge to low-income residents, ensuring that individuals like Georgia, a 90-year-old grandmother caring for her grandchildren, have access to essential food resources. Denise highlighted that without this assistance, many families would struggle to secure their next meal.

The funding request aims to cover nearly all of the salary for the organization’s executive director, Cameron, who plays a crucial role in food rescue, meal preparation, and distribution. With a small team of just four, the organization relies heavily on Cameron's leadership to sustain its operations and continue serving the community.

Denise emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, "Without his leadership, our organization's efforts would just simply cease to exist." The board's support could ensure that families facing food insecurity continue to receive the vital assistance they need.

In addition to 3 60 Eats, the meeting also featured a request from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Suncoast, which sought similar funding to enhance workforce readiness programs for youth in the area. As discussions continue, the impact of these funding decisions will be closely watched by community members reliant on these essential services.