Tampa Republic

The Tampa Police Department has awarded $35,000 in total funding to eight local community organizations. The funding aims to support projects and programs that benefit Tampa residents and align with the department's mission to reduce crime, improve quality of life, and enhance safety.

"Tampa thrives because of the strong partnerships of our dedicated police department and a community committed to safety and improvement," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "Together, we have built a reputation as being one of the safest cities of our size in the nation. Just like the award recipients we honor today; every resident has the potential to make a positive impact in our community."

TPD C.A.R.E.S. funding is designated for programs within Tampa's municipal boundaries that focus on crime prevention and community engagement. This includes social development, mentorship, drug or domestic abuse prevention and treatment, and mental health initiatives.

The organizations selected for 2024 TPD C.A.R.E.S. funding are:

MEN OF VISION, INC., awarded $10,000 for their “Changing the Narrative” program. This initiative provides scholarships for college, trade, or technical schools for young men in the community. It also supports high school students' graduation efforts, summer tutoring to prevent knowledge loss, and mentorship for college students.

Academy Prep Center of Tampa Inc., awarded $5,000 for their Graduate Support Services project. Academy Prep reports that 99% of its graduates finish high school on time, with 83% enrolling in college and an additional 5% serving in the military. Their program focuses on eliminating generational poverty through education.

MRG Labs Inc., awarded $5,000 for their Guinn Center program which offers STEM tutoring, college prep, career mentorships, mental health sessions, wellness programs, and community events aimed at teens.

SOAR First received $5,000 for their Shine Enrichment Pulse program focused on enhancing community safety through proactive engagement strategies.

Cornerstone Kids Inc., awarded $2,500 for their After-School Program providing homework assistance, tutoring in reading and math programs among other activities aimed at socio-emotional development of at-risk children aged 5-11 years old.

Tampa Alumni Guide Right Foundation Inc., awarded $2,500 for their Kappa Leadership Development League program which organizes neighborhood clean-up projects to improve safety and appearance while deterring criminal activity.

United Bikerz Jamboree Inc., awarded $2,500 for its community initiatives aimed at bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts with Tampa residents through entertainment events and mentorship opportunities led by Chairman Chris Hill.

West Tampa Little League Corporation received $2,500 to support its baseball and softball programs ensuring all children can participate regardless of financial constraints.

Contact:

306 East Jackson Street

Tampa Florida 33602

(813) 274-8211

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