‘The families of our deputies know what it’s like to save a plate for their loved one during the holidays.’
The Tampa Foundation is hosting its annual One Table community Thanksgiving dinner Sunday at the Tampa Convention Center, for first responders delivering critical public safety services to the region.
“So many of us meet a first responder on one of the hardest days of our lives,” Tampa Foundation Executive Director Gennie Swenson said. “At One Table, we get to meet them as neighbors. We get to serve them dinner, hear their stories and say thank you face to face.”
The event, at 6 p.m., welcomes not just first responders, but also ticketed members of the community looking to share their thanks. Sponsorship opportunities were sold for the event for up to $25,000.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, a former Tampa Police Chief, will be on hand at the dinner.
“I spent years with the Tampa Police Department, and I know what it means to hear a simple thank-you from the people you serve,” Castor said. “I’m grateful to The Tampa Foundation and the volunteers who are taking the time this Thanksgiving to show our first responders how much their service means to Tampa.”
And Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister recognized the importance of providing a proper Thanksgiving meal to first responders, many of whom often miss family celebrations to ensure public safety for the Tampa Bay community.
“The families of our deputies know what it’s like to save a plate for their loved one during the holidays,” Chronister said. “I am grateful for One Table who’s setting a place for them this Thanksgiving to show first responders their service is appreciated.”
The Tampa Foundation is a nonprofit organization working with local artists and community partners to bring murals and other public art to Tampa Bay. Tim Moore founded the organization in 2016.
