Salvation Army Provides Drive-Thru Food Sites In Pinellas

CLEARWATER, FL — The Salvation Army in Pinellas County has significantly stepped up to help the most vulnerable populations during the coronavirus.

In addition to regular food pantry operations, The Salvation Army is partnering with Feeding Tampa Bay to host weekly drive-thru food distributions during the month of April in Clearwater to help meet increased needs.

Other services currently being offered across the county are rent, mortgage, utility assistance, family shelters and emergency shelters as resources are available.

While everyone feels the stress caused by the coronavirus pandemic to some degree, people living in poverty may be more severely impacted. Several industries are at risk of financial hardship, such as travel and hospitality.

“We anticipate a significant increase in emergency assistance for low-wage employees who may be temporarily laid off due to coronavirus,” said Maj. Ted Morris, administrator for The Salvation Army serving Clearwater and Upper Pinellas County.

Newly-elected Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard agreed

“Many of our restaurants are closed, and servers are out of work. These food distributions can really make a difference," he said.

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Ensuring the safety of those who depend on Salvation Army programs and services, along with the safety of staff and volunteers, the organization is working with health officials at the local, state, and federal levels – including participating in situation-awareness calls with federal partners such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services.

Food Distribution Information:

• Clearwater: Drive-thru food box distribution take place each Wednesday during April in partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay. Boxes are pre-assembled and include fresh produce. Weekly distributions take place from 3:30 – 5 p.m. or until all boxes are distributed, at 1521 Druid Road East, Clearwater.
• St. Petersburg: The food pantry is available Monday - Friday, 9 – 11:30 a.m. at 1400 4th St. S., St. Petersburg. Please bring a photo ID and piece of mail within 30 days that includes a current address (required for St. Petersburg food pantry only, not Clearwater drive-thru).

The Salvation Army needs support to be able to continue to provide needed services throughout this pandemic. To learn more and support The Salvation Army’s efforts, click here.