Noteworthy News

Free Groceries Available for County Residents at

Saturday Community Health Fair

The County’s Healthy Living Program is hosting an event on Saturday, March 28, where residents can receive free groceries as well as a variety of health services.

Hillsborough County residents will be given free groceries from 9-10:30 a.m. at a community health fair for the Healthy Living Program at the Jackson Springs Recreation Center, 8620 Jackson Springs Rd., Tampa, FL 33615. The food, provided in partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, generally includes fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, canned goods, and staples like beans and rice. There are no income restrictions to receive the food.

The community health fair will continue until noon, and residents also will be able to receive free health screenings and vaccinations (when available) as well as information on Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program and Hillsborough County’s Health Care Plan. The event also includes giveaways and children’s activities.

For more information on Saturday’s event, the Healthy Living Program, or the Hillsborough County Health Care Plan, call (813) 272-5040.

Two outstanding Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS) leaders have been recognized by Florida TaxWatch as recipients of the prestigious 2025–26 Principal Leadership Awards (PLA), honoring exceptional principals from high-risk K–12 public schools across Florida.

The awards recognize principals who are making a transformational impact on student achievement while fostering strong school cultures and supporting teachers, families, and communities.

The 2025–26 Hillsborough County Principal Leadership Award recipients are:

Middle School

Lipi Datta‑Reid, Principal
Dr. Carter G. Woodson K–8 School
Nicolas Stamatopoulos

High School

Dina Langston, Principal
Armwood High School
Isaac Bernadin

Observances

As March concludes, the end of Women’s History Month serves as a reminder that recognizing the contributions, sacrifices, and triumphs of women should not be confined to a single month but rather celebrated throughout the entire year. While the month provides a dedicated space to highlight trailblazers, educate on overlooked history, and address persistent gender inequalities, the work of advancing equality continues beyond April 1st.

Easter is one of the most significant holidays in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion on Good Friday. Considered the culmination of the "Passion of Christ" series of events, this holy day follows a 40-day period of fasting and reflection known as Lent. The holiday represents a central message of hope, triumph over death, and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. While it holds deep religious significance, many Easter traditions, such as the Easter egg, an ancient symbol of new life, and the Easter bunny, are linked to pagan, springtime festivals that predate Christianity. Today, Easter is celebrated globally through a combination of church services and festive traditions like egg hunts, decoration, and family gatherings.

Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a major eight-day Jewish holiday celebrated in early spring (spanning the 15th through the 22nd of the Hebrew month of Nissan) that commemorates the biblical story of the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. Known also as the Festival of Freedom or Spring, it centers on the story of the Exodus, in which God delivered the Jewish people from bondage under Pharaoh.

In the Community

International Women's Day Celebration

Brenda McKenzie, President, Tampa Chapter, The Links Inc, and

Dr. Shuana Tucker-Sims, National Vice President, The Links Inc.

On Saturday, March 14, 2026, I had the pleasure of participating in the International Women's Day celebration hosted by The Links, Inc. at the Regent at Hillsborough College in Tampa. This annual event commemorates the achievements of women around the world and serves as a powerful reminder of the work still needed to ensure gender equality for future generations.

Unity Met Gala

Front Row: Rechee Wise

Back Row: Rosalyn Wise and Dorothy Flowers

On Friday, March 20, 2026, I was joined by my sisters and brother-in-law at the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival Unity Met Gala at the beautiful Egypt Shrine in Tampa. It was a night of fellowship, fine dining and collaboration. This annual event showcases the rich cultural heritage of our community and serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that defines our community in Tampa Bay.

Gardens at Diana Pointe

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Tacheka Budhoo, Homeowner

On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, I gave remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony of 24 townhomes at the Gardens at Diana Point North in Tampa. All 24 townhomes at the Gardens at Diana Point North have three bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, 1-car garages, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Hillsborough County provided the Corporation to Develop Communities with $4.2 million in Home Investment Partnership Program funding for 18 of the homes. Those 18 homes will be sold at below market rate to families making at or below 80% of Area Median Income; the remaining six will be sold to families making between 80% and 120% of Area Median Income.

Winston Park Town Hall

Lisa McLean, Hillsborough County Public Defender

On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, my dedicated staff and I hosted a Town Hall at the Jeff & Penny Vinik Boys and Family Club at Winston Park. This Town Hall was a wonderful opportunity for community engagement. I was pleased to share that a new splash pad had been added to the Winston Park Recreation Facility. We welcomed 30 County departments and agencies and invited the community members to share their concerns, ideas, and aspirations for the neighborhood. The feedback gathered during these discussions will not only guide our future initiatives but will also help us ensure that we are addressing the specific needs of our growing community.

Dependency Case Management

Recognition Program

Commissioner Chris Boles, Chief Judge Chris Sabella, and Judge Daryl Manning

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, I had the privilege of attending the 13th Judicial Circuit Court Dependency Case Management Recognition Program. This event was held to honor the Case Managers Supervisors and Case Managers who work tirelessly to support our community's most vulnerable children and families. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the 13th Judicial Circuit for organizing such an impactful event and to all the case manager supervisors and case managers who serve our community with unwavering dedication.

Latino Coalition Meeting with Commissioner

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, I was invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Latino Coalition at Meals on Wheels of Tampa Bay. The Coalition, established in 2005, has been a cornerstone of our community. The discussions were rich and fruitful, focusing on critical issues such as education, property tax reform, upcoming election issues, healthcare access, economic development, and cultural preservation. It is my honor to support the goals of the Latino Coalition and help to ensure that all voices are heard in our community.

Bridge Builders' Program and Luncheon

Commissioners Chris Boles, Harry Cohen and Christine Miller

On Thursday, March 26, 2026, I was honored to attend the Metro Ministries Bridge Builders program and luncheon held at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. This event emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges faced by our community, particularly in supporting those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. I encourage all residents to get involved, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about the services available through Metro Ministries.

Congratulations to Dr. Sarah Combs, CEO, Metro Ministries on a successful Bridge Builders Program and Luncheon! The luncheon met its goal and raised $1.5 million!

Volunteer Event

DeAle Burgess and Linda Thomas, Board President,

Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGF)

On Friday, March 27, 2026, I had the honor of joining dedicated volunteers from MetLife, as well as the Rebuilding Together staff and Board President Linda Thomas. Together, we focused our efforts on making a meaningful difference in the life of a family in need by revitalizing their home. The project encompassed essential repairs to the roof and windows, which were generously funded by Verizon and the American Red Cross. These improvements not only enhance the safety and comfort of the home but also ensure that the family can thrive in a secure and welcoming environment.

Congratulations to Jose Garcia, CEO, RTGF on helping another family in District 3!

Annual Sisterhood Summit Event

Ernest Coney, Jr., CEO, CDC of Tampa

On Friday, March 27, 2026, I gave remarks the CDC of Tampa’s Annual Sisterhood Summit. This year's theme was "Embrace your Crown and Shine". The summit brought together an inspiring group of speakers, advocates, and community leaders who shared their stories of resilience and empowerment. From discussions on mental health and wellness to workshops on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, the event provided invaluable resources for women of all ages and backgrounds.

In the Know

HART to Host Workshops to Determine

the Future of its Mass Transit Service

English Flyer

Spanish Flyer

County Offers Free Tax Filing Software and Financial Education During Tax Season

As tax season continues, County residents have access to free tools and expert guidance to help them file their taxes accurately and claim valuable refunds and credits.

Through Hillsborough County Extension Service and United Way Suncoast, residents can take advantage of free tax preparation software, financial education classes, and virtual workshops. The federal tax filing deadline for most taxpayers is Wednesday, April 15.

Free Tax Filing Software Available for Eligible Residents

Eligible residents can file their taxes through United Way’s MyFreeTaxes initiative at no cost online. To qualify, residents must have an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less. To date, the program has helped more than 1.5 million people nationwide file returns and save millions in tax preparation fees.