News Summary
The Glazer family has awarded $1 million in grants to 95 small businesses in Tampa Bay affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This initiative aims to provide financial relief and support local recovery efforts. The grants, administered by local chambers of commerce, showcase the community’s resilience as small businesses regroup and work towards recovery. Applications for the next round of funding are now open until March 14, providing continued support for the local economy.
Tampa Bay Shines with $1 Million Boost for Small Businesses
In a heartwarming show of support for the local community, the Glazer family, known for their ownership of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has awarded a hefty $1 million in grants to **95** small businesses that have felt the brunt of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. With the organization’s generosity, these carefully selected establishments from the Tampa Bay and West Central Florida regions are set to receive much-needed financial relief during a challenging period.
Community Backing
The Glazer Family Small Business Fund stands as a beacon of hope, specifically aimed at assisting those businesses that have faced significant losses due to recent storms. Local chambers of commerce have jumped into action, playing a vital role in administering this fund and distributing grants to deserving businesses. Participating chambers include the Tampa Bay Chamber, North Tampa Bay Chamber, South Tampa Chamber, St. Petersburg Chamber, Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber, Manatee Chamber, Greater Plant City Chamber, and Amplify Clearwater.
Resilience Amid Hardship
It’s truly inspiring to witness the resilience of the Tampa Bay community as businesses regroup and rebound after natural disasters. The Glazer family has shown their commitment to this community by stepping up right after Hurricane Helene, when they generously donated an initial $1 million to local relief efforts. Following the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, a second pledge of $1 million was made, which now serves as the crucial funding source for the small business grants.
Apply Now!
For those businesses looking for support, it’s great news! Applications for the second round of funding are now open until March 14. What’s even more encouraging is that any business that applied previously for the grants won’t need to reapply, as their original applications will carry over seamlessly. A full list of businesses receiving the grants is available through the program, ensuring community members can see the positive impact this funding is making in real time.
Other Local Updates
Alongside this uplifting initiative, the University of South Florida has begun forming a search committee for a new university president as President Rhea Law plans to step down. In encouraging news, a generous $2.2 million donation from local philanthropists Joey Redner and his wife will significantly support the on-campus Habitat for Humanity program.
Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside is also expanding its reach; the organization is moving into Hernando County and will be rebranded as Habitat for Tampa Bay. This marks an exciting milestone for the area as they continue to build homes and hope within the community.
Family Health Focus
In the realm of family health, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium has unveiled its new BayCare Kids Check-Up Exhibit, specifically designed to raise awareness about health issues affecting families. This initiative reflects a more considerable commitment to community welfare, focusing on promoting health education in an engaging and informative way.
Upcoming Events
Final Thoughts
The Gracer family’s unwavering support for small businesses and local initiatives during challenging times speaks volumes about their commitment to Tampa Bay. As the community joins together in resilience and recovery, these grants not only represent financial relief but also a beacon of hope for the future of small businesses in the area.
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Additional Resources
- TBBWMAG: 95 Local Businesses Receive Funding from Glazer Family Small Business Fund
- Buccaneers: Glazer Family Announces Small Business Fund Program 2024
- Fox Sports: Glazer Family Owner Buccaneers Donates Extra $1 Million Toward Hurricane Relief
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Impact
- WTSP: Glazer Family Donates $1 Million Hurricane Helene Relief
- Google News: Glazer Family
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
