In collaboration with the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners, United Way of Pasco County (UWPC) is rolling out a new program named Operation Feed Pasco (OFP) to assist local food pantries and soup kitchens in supplying food for residents by utilizing our local restaurants.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing number of people who are going hungry. In addition, many restaurants are suffering from having to lay off employees due to social distancing restrictions. In many instances, restaurants cannot remain open.

United Way of Pasco has been asked by Pasco County to develop and implement a program to help feed people utlizing Pasco-based restaurants, event centers, and caterers.

Over the next two months, United Way of Pasco County plans to work with various non-profit agencies and restaurants to bring tens of thousands of meals to Pasco residents.

United Way of Pasco County receives $600,000 grant for Operation Feed Pasco

Through funding from the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners, United Way of Pasco County will pay for meals from local Pasco restaurants to be distributed through food pantries and soup kitchens. Meals will be from the restaurants’ existing menus and will be served hot to clients.

Since late April, United Way of Pasco County has been vetting restaurants; ensuring they meet health code guidelines and can meet the capacity the agencies require.

Restaurants wishing to participate in the Operation Feed Pasco Program must be in good standing with the Department of Professional Business Regulations, be insured, and comply with program guidelines.

Interested restaurants will also need to provide the following documents: Food Manager Certificate, Food license, and Certificate of insurance.

Agencies wishing to receive food through this program must be able to provide a 501(c)(3) determination form, Patriot Act form, must operate a food pantry or soup kitchen, and must comply with program guidelines.

Interested parties should contact Madeline Colon at MadelineC@unitedwaypasco.org.