November 17, 2025

Gulf Coast Donors Raise $233,000 in Two Days to Support All Faiths Food Bank

Gulf Coast launches a challenge match for the Area of Greatest Need Fund following an inspiring show of compassion and community spirit from donors in support of All Faiths Food Bank.

Veteran helps with food distribution at All Faiths Food Bank Photo by GCCF

In an inspiring show of compassion and community spirit, Gulf Coast Community Foundation donors contributed $233,000 in just two days to support All Faiths Food Bank following recent cuts to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.

The rapid outpouring of support began on Tuesday when Gulf Coast announced a special $50,000 challenge match from two donor families, Gary and Barbara Rodkin and the Strohl Family Foundation, to provide immediate relief to families facing food insecurity. Soon after, Bob and Lin Williams stepped forward to double the match to $100,000, igniting a powerful wave of generosity across the Gulf Coast donor community.

“Once again, our donors demonstrated the extraordinary impact that happens when our community comes together."

Phillip Lanham, President | CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation

“Once again, our donors demonstrated the extraordinary impact that happens when our community comes together,” said Phillip Lanham, President | CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation. “In just 36 hours, their collective generosity turned a challenge into life-changing support for families who need it most.”

Because of this community-wide effort, seniors, children and neighbors across the region will have access to nutritious meals, hope, and comfort during an especially difficult time.

Building on this momentum, Gulf Coast is now launching a new challenge match of up to $150,000 for its Area of Greatest Need Fund, thanks to the generosity of three Gulf Coast donor families (two anonymous and the Strohl Family Foundation). Every dollar contributed through November 30 will be matched to help nonprofit partners combat hunger and food insecurity across the region.

“This next match gives everyone in our community the opportunity to make a difference,” Lanham added. “Together, we can continue to meet the greatest needs of our neighbors – today and in the months ahead.”

Community members can join the effort by making a gift to Gulf Coast’s Area of Greatest Need Fund online (www.gulfcoastcf.org/give-area-need), through their donor advised fund, or by connecting with a Philanthropic Advisor.

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