The Manatee County Public Works Department, as a collective, is seeking contributions for our yearly charitable barbecue gathering, set to take place on November 3, 2023, at 1108 26th Ave. East, Bradenton. The proceeds generated from the sale of barbecue lunches and raffle tickets will be entirely dedicated to supporting Turning Points, Manatee County, and their diverse array of community initiatives aimed at assisting individuals facing homelessness or the imminent risk of it. The exponential rise in rent prices, inflation, and the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022 have caused severe hardships for families, veterans, and seniors who rely on fixed incomes.

Preventing homelessness by maintaining individuals and families in their housing is Turning Point's primary goal. Preventing homelessness reduces the stress on families that accompanies the process of eviction, it is far more cost effective, and it eliminates the need for changing schools, for finding a new landlord willing to accept a client with an eviction record, and for developing new strategies to cope with transportation changes. The great appeal of the integrated approach to service delivery practiced at the Bill Galvano One Stop Center is people have their physical, emotional and spiritual needs addressed by a caring team of paid staff and volunteers who work closely together.

Turning Points offers support for those having trouble making house payments, keeping electricity and water turned on, or looking for a more affordable housing situation in a safe environment, there are very few options for help available in Manatee County.  This is what makes this organization critical to caring for those who are at risk and living on limited incomes: veterans, low income families, seniors, and those experiencing homelessness.

As a registered member of the Department of Children and Families Services ACCESS site, Turning Points offers the following: Assistance obtaining Florida State Identification Card (application and code assistance), Ordering a copy of your birth certificate (application and cost assistance), Emergency Food Assistance, Applying for Food Stamps, Other Financial assistance programs when applicable. 

Additionally, employment assistance is available in our fully equipped computer lab to search and apply for jobs.  Staff and volunteers offer resume writing and consultation and computer skills training. Turning Points offers use of a telephone and fax service, mailbox service so there is an address for mail and employment applications, emergency food assistance and internet access in the computer lab for access to email and online assistance tools.

We are eager to collaborate with you, providing an exceptional chance to demonstrate your backing for our community. The BBQ fundraising event has consistently achieved or surpassed our fundraising target every year, thanks to community partners like yourself. I look forward to partnering with you once more this year!  I’ve attached our donation letter, event flyer, and 501c3 form for your consideration.