“Gary and I have seen SPFC respond thoughtfully and decisively as the need for food, healthcare, and stability support has grown,” Burgess said in a news release. “We believe in Care Forward because it pairs bold ambition with a proven ability to deliver. This gift is an investment in the people of Pinellas County and in a model of care that can change the trajectory of a life.”
Their $5 million commitment supports Care Forward, SPFC’s five-year, $100 million initiative to expand food security and healthcare access across Pinellas County.
The south St. Pete facility is a central part of that effort. Plans call for expanded food distribution, medical care suites, and new community spaces, including a Knowledge Center for learning and connection.
“By integrating nutritious food, healthcare, education, and navigation services under one roof, SPFC aims to help neighbors address immediate needs while improving long-term health outcomes, including the prevention and management of chronic disease,” Sheryl Zeitler, SPFC’s Chief External Affairs Officer, told St. Pete Rising.