Metropolitan Ministries' Holiday Center is in need, with donations down 20 percent overall. According to president Morris E. Hintzman, they are expecting 1,200 more needy families by Wednesday and 20,000 families over the next 30 days. Here's how to help. Most needed foodstuffs: turkey or gift certificate, mashed potatoes (boxed), canned fruit and yams. If you can't make it to the main campus (2002 N. Florida Ave., Tampa), please volunteer or drop-off your donations at the following locations:

Joining Hands Holiday Center (located at Community United Methodist Church), 3214 U.S. Hwy 19, Holiday.  Mon.-Sat. 10am-7pm, Sun. 1pm-5pm

Plant City Holiday Center (located in the lot of the Ferman Chrysler Jeep Dodge dealership), 1722 S. Collins street, Plant City.  Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-8pm, Sat 9am-7pm

St. James United Methodist Church (donations only), 16202 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., North Tampa.  Mon.-Sun 9am-6pm   11/9-11/25, 12/7-12/23 

Additional drop-off locations include:
AAA locations (Bay area)
Race Trac stations (Bay area)
Ferman dealerships (Bay area)

Volunteer opportunities:
Volunteers and volunteer leaders are still needed, especially during daytime hours. If you are interested in becoming a servant leader, contact Andrea Giovannelli at (813) 209-1251 or andrea.giovannelli@metromin.org. High school students over the age of 14 are encouraged to volunteer (service hours count). Call Marlyne Guillaume at 813-209-1002 or email marlyne.guillaume@metromin.org.