The Problem
Sulphur Springs is a neighborhood and district located within Tampa that was once known for being a mineral springs-tourist attraction that drew middle-and working-class families. Today, it is a diverse neighborhood of approximately 10,000 residents with over half of the residents being Black or African American, 30% are White, and a little over 20% are Hispanic or Latina. Many families within the neighborhood experience food insecurity due to lack of access to close sources of food. Only 42% of the population owns a car. On top of that 41% of renters cost burdened and 25% of homeowners cost burdened. Many families in the Sulphur Springs rely on local food distribution events for access to fresh food and essential groceries. Dream Builders Mission is a Tampa-based nonprofit with a mission to equip individuals in poverty to successfully transition back into mainstream society. They provide over 500 hot meals weekly to the hungry and unhoused, supply food baskets to over 600 low-income families every month, and distribute essential clothing, hygiene, and school supplies to those in the neighborhood. While they serve hundreds of residents each month, existing equipment limits the efficiency, safety, and visibility of food distribution efforts.
