“Fifth Third Feeding Families” Food Drive May 24, 2012

On the third day of May (Fifth Third Day), Fifth Third Banks across the country have celebrated their heritage through their employees, customers and communities they serve. As part of Fifth Third’s holiday, the bank’s Florida affiliates have created an alliance to address the effects of critical issues plaguing our state: hunger and homelessness.

In Tampa Bay, the occasion is being marked with “Fifth Third Feeding Families” – a food drive aimed at collecting enough non-perishable food items to feed 5,300 families. For the third year, the effort will benefit Metropolitan Ministries, a faith-based nonprofit that provides support to hungry children and families in the four-county Tampa Bay area.

“I am proud to work among a team of employees who are truly committed to making a difference in all of the communities we serve,” said Brian Lamb, president of Fifth Third Bank (Tampa Bay). “By demonstrating one of Fifth Third Bank’s core values, teamwork and collaboration, and working with great organizations like Metropolitan Ministries, we are able to help families and children in need throughout Tampa Bay.”

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2011 report, Tampa has the highest rate of homelessness in America at 57 per 10,000 residents. Hunger is on the rise as well.

“We’ve seen the need for food in our community and the pervasive effects of homelessness continue to grow,” said Tim Marks, president and COO of Metropolitan Ministries. “We are very thankful for the partnership with Fifth Third Bank. The donated food will directly help local people in our area. Every can or box helps make a difference, not only to fight hunger but also to provide hope.”

Food collection bins are set up at all 47 Fifth Third banking centers throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties. Bank employees and customers – as well as local businesses and community residents – are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items. Most needed are canned fruits and meats, peanut butter, boxed cereal and beans.

“Fifth Third Bank has been listening to our community’s concerns and has developed high-impact initiatives to help address the effects of hunger and homelessness,” said Karen Dee, Florida regional president of Fifth Third Bank. “All of our Florida affiliates have united to form an alliance and, as part of Fifth Third Day, we’re making that commitment known, so that others have the opportunity to participate.”

To donate, stop by your local Fifth Third banking center or visit 53.com to find a location nearest you.

Official Website: http://www.53.com