As the holiday season draws near, many of us are busy planning travel, gathering with loved ones, and preparing festive meals. It’s also a time to reflect on how we can assist those in need.
“It’s a wonderfully busy time as we approach the holidays, and we really see that spirit of giving come to life,” says Jennifer Yeagley, CEO of the St. Pete Free Clinic (SPFC), in an interview with Florida Matters.
Founded in 1970 to provide healthcare to uninsured adults, SPFC has since expanded its services to include food, hygiene, housing assistance, and transportation. The clinic’s medical and dental services see about 12,000 visits annually, while its three food pantries serve approximately 40,000 visits per month—a number that has doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Yeagley notes that around two-thirds of those seeking help this fall have been impacted by Hurricanes Helene or Milton.
“We anticipate seeing long-term effects from this hurricane season,” she explains. “There will likely be more hidden homelessness—people whose homes are now uninhabitable, staying in cars, couch surfing, or relying on friends and family for extended periods. We may never even know about it.”
Despite the challenges, Yeagley expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support SPFC has received, even from those who were directly affected by the storms.
“We have a volunteer who works weekly in our We Help fresh food pantry. I recently asked how she was doing, and she told me, ‘I lost my house,’” Yeagley shares. “But she’s still here, choosing to help others. It’s incredibly inspiring to be surrounded by staff and volunteers who, even in the face of their own losses, choose to focus on helping others.”
Looking ahead, Yeagley believes that as the community settles into a new routine after the storms, many will look for ways to give back and support their neighbors during the long recovery process.
If you’re interested in supporting the St. Pete Free Clinic, you can donate, help with hurricane recovery efforts, or volunteer.
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