Tampa Bay 28 tells our story
In July 2026, Tampa Bay 28 reporter Haley Zarcone came out to see Freedom Gathering for herself. Her story, Hundreds go hungry in Manatee County: Inside the volunteer group serving 300-500 people weekly, shows what happens every week on our route.
What they saw
Between 300 and 500 people fed every week. Around 200 to 300 at the Wednesday gathering alone. Fresh produce carried to five trailer parks. A team on the road seven days a week, and every one of them a volunteer.
They also told how it all started: Tonia's grandson, his recess money, a gallon of water and some cups, and a furniture store parking lot with 30 people in it.
What we need
The story named the two things that would let us reach more people: a refrigerated truck and a larger trailer. If God puts that on your heart, you can give here.