Community Foundation Tampa Bay has awarded $15,000 from its Critical Needs List to the St. Petersburg Foundation. The funding will support the expansion of the Needs Navigator program, which has played a vital role in assisting residents during and after recent storms.
The Needs Navigator program, spearheaded by the St. Petersburg Foundation, connects individuals and families to critical resources, including housing assistance, food security, and mental health support. With the area recovering from the impacts of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, the program’s expansion is crucial to addressing increased community demands.
“This funding allows us to meet the growing needs of our community in the wake of recent storms,” said Keara McGraw, a representative of the St. Petersburg Foundation. “The Needs Navigator program ensures that residents facing hardship can access essential resources quickly and efficiently.”
The Critical Needs List, maintained by Community Foundation Tampa Bay, identifies high-priority funding opportunities for nonprofits addressing urgent challenges. By providing timely support, the initiative bridges gaps in community services and fosters collaboration among local organizations.
Since its inception, the Needs Navigator program has helped hundreds of residents overcome barriers to recovery, including accessing FEMA assistance and connecting with local relief efforts. The program’s personalized approach ensures that individuals receive tailored guidance to meet their specific challenges.
With this additional funding, the St. Petersburg Foundation plans to increase its outreach capacity, train additional navigators, and expand partnerships with local agencies to enhance resource availability.
