Tampa Bay area nonprofits share how you can help this Giving Tuesday

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Tuesday after Thanksgiving marks Giving Tuesday, a day of generosity when people often give back to their favorite charities or nonprofit organizations.

Giving Tuesday also begins the Christmas season at Metropolitan Ministries.

“Many people who were previously donors and volunteers are now asking us for help because they were affected by the storms,” said Justine Burke, vice president of marketing for Metro Ministries.

Burke said donations fell about 23 percent after our recent hurricanes, but needs increased about 20 percent.

“It comes right into the tent here and goes right out the other side to a family in need, and it means a meal,” Burke said. “If you give money, you know, $10, $20 or $50 or…” More than that, it just multiplies. They provide for a family that would otherwise miss out on a holiday meal and toys for their children under the tree.”

At Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County, donations can leave a lasting impact in more ways than one.

“The donations have been great for us,” said Callie Lupica, the nonprofit’s annual fund director. “Our community has truly been a partner. “Your donation allows you to give the family a blessing that we actually physically write on the wood frame of a Habitat home.”

If you’re planning on giving this Giving Tuesday, the BBB has a few tips to help you give with confidence. She advises you to research the charity before donating and make sure you know the exact name of the charity to avoid confusion.

Companies also recognize that times are tough and remind you that your time is valuable too.

“We definitely need volunteers,” Burke said. “We had a late start because of the hurricanes.”

“There are always ways to give back that resonate with your heart,” Lupica said.