Gallery

It was a Miracle... Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council had been looking for Chris our Marine Veteran. Chris showed up to our Iglesia Lugares Celestiales stop. Rhoshada was in shock that she finally connected with Chris who does not have a phone. Chris was in shock that Rhoshada had housing for him and was picking him up the next day to take him to his housing opportunity. We all were super happy for Chris and a few tears were shed... Happy Tears... Through my happy tears may I ask our supporters to donate on or before December 2, GivingTuesday. This is the time of year that we depend on donations to carry us through next year. We have served 2,577 meals this year and provided supplies, resources and compassion to our local unhoused residents. Go to the link to donate to our GivingTuesday fund: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/ Thanks in advance, Gail Harvey Tent City Helpes

We missed Jerry Monday evening. He had gone to Georgia to spend Thanksgiving with his family. He always jokes with us that we need 6 ladies to replace him. Well Jerry here are 9 ladies that tried to replace you... You are irreplaceable but we managed very well. You may of been absent but we were still thinking of you! Please do not be absent and miss your chance in supporting the service we provide for our local unhoused folks. GivingTuesday is Dec. 2 just around the corner. Please donate to keep our service top notch. To donate go to: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/ Thanks in advance!

Happy Thanksgiving! Here is our Veteran friend, Vinny. He is getting a hot holiday meal from Josh, Serenity and Camila. Serenity is the sweet angelic child that inspired the non-profit "Giving Grace". Tent City Helpers was also inspired by a child, Antonio Solomon, Tony and Stacy Solomon's son. By children asking about unhoused people and where do they go? There has been at least two non-profit's born. Matthew 18:3: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This is the time of year that we recieve most of our donations. Please participate in our GivingTuesday fund on or before Dec. 2nd. You can find it at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/ Thanks in advance! #becomelikelittlechildren #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #manchesterinsurance #GivingTuesday2025 #caringandcompassionatecommunity #veteransneedhousing

Happy Thanksgiving! We asked our newly housed Veteran couple, Ryan and Marla, what they wanted for a house warming gift and they said a Turkey. So we delivered a Turkey a few days ago and today we are delivering a Thanksgiving meal donated from Charlie's Bar and Grill. Leslie is donating festive decorations to decorate too! We so appreciate Ryan's service to his country. Ryan and Marla have an incredible love story. It looks like they are going to have a Happy Thanksgiving to add to their good memories! We are grateful to know Ryan and Marla and be able to bring them some joy this Thanksgiving 🦃. Remember GivingTuesday is December 2, 2025. We are all volunteers at Tent City Helpers and each dollar is carefully spent for the greatest impact to serve those residents that are struggling with housing. You are invited to join our village by donating so we can continue our caring and compassionate work. https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/ Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #HappyThanksgiving #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #seasonofgiving #ittakesavillage #goodmemories #GodBlessOurVeterans

If you have been a volunteer, donor, follower of Tent City Helpers in the past 10 years you are invited. We are so excited to be 10 years old. Please RSVP if you are coming. Donny is providing the food from Charlie's Bar and Grill. Tony Solomon one of our founders is sponsoring a DJ from Fullhouse Entertainment. It should be fun and we will have some Reindeer Games.

This was the crew that went out on Monday. Thanks to Josh, Martha, Rhoshada, MacKenna, Julia, Serenity, Camila, Aracelis, Kaleth, Jaime, and Kathy. This was our Burger King stop and the weather was great. It's the team work that makes the dream work!! Do not forget about us on GivingTuesday December 2nd. This is our primary fundraiser and have a donor donating to match every donation up to a $1,000. Please donate on Tuesday or before Thanks in advance. To donate to our GivingTuesday Campaign go to: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/ Sincerely, Gail Harvey Tent City Helpers

Thanks everyone who made our deliveries on Monday so special. It takes a village and our village is full of kind and compassionate people. Thanks Jodi with Giving Grace for cooking! #ittakesavillage #tentcityhelpers #caringandcompasionate #hometownfeeling❤️ #appreciative

Thanks to Jodi Cordon with the non-profit "Giving Grace" for cooking a great holiday meal. Thanks to her daughter Julia and granddaughters who served up the delicious meal. We served 58 people who are unhoused at our six stops. The Girls were extra helpful with lots of energy... So appreciated by our friends that are struggling with housing. #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #appreciative #spreadingsunshine☀️ #GivingGrace

This is our Thanksgiving Monday! We will be delivering today and Jodi Cordon and her family are cooking and serving a “Holiday Meal”. Thanks to Jodi and all our volunteers and donors that make this happen. Happy Thanksgiving!

Our work and service is much appreciated. Here’s a text I received yesterday from the parent of a little family we are serving…. 💕 #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #ittakesavillage

🌟 GivingTuesday is coming up on December 6th, 2025! 🌟 And as always, it takes a village to lift up our unhoused neighbors. As a grassroots, all-volunteer nonprofit, we’re proud to be Platinum rated by Candid—a reflection of our transparency, commitment, and the heart of our community. This year alone, thanks to generous supporters like you, we’ve prepared and served 2,400 meals to local residents in need. ❤️ But meals are only part of the story. Together, we’re building a caring and compassionate community. In 2025 we’ve also provided: 🏕️ Tents & camping gear 🛡️ Tarps 🔋 Batteries 🦟 Bug spray 🧦 Warm socks 🧼 Hygiene supplies ⛑️ First-aid kits 📚 A free community book exchange Every item, every meal, every moment of dignity offered, it all comes from people like you who believe everyone deserves care and connection. This GivingTuesday, we invite you to be part of our village. 💙 Your support goes directly to the people who need it most. 💙 Your generosity keeps our mission alive. 👉 Donate, share, or volunteer—every action helps us continue showing up for our unhoused neighbors in real, tangible ways. Thank you for standing with us. Together, we’re making a compassionate and caring community. 💫. https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/?fundraiser_source=external_url. #GivingTuesday #ItTakesAVillage #CommunityCare #SupportLocal #GrassrootsNonprofit #CandidPlatinum #UnhousedNeighbors #GiveBack

This is our stop behind Wawa's in south Stuart. This cold afternoon a cup of coffee hit the spot. So happy to have Jan as our newest volunteer. Jan had always told us when she lived in her van that when she could she would volunteer. Well so happy that Jan is living in a house and helping us distribute clothes and blankets. Josh is also volunteering after his work. He is so generous. Then we have Rhoshanda with her new vest on that we gave her for veterans Day. We are a happy crew on this beautiful crisp Monday afternoon. #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #treasurecoasthomelessservicescouncil #greatcrew #manchesterinsurance

MacKenna is back and spreading her love 💕 we had pizza for our little family living at different campgrounds until the rules of how long they can stay are enforced and then they move to another campground. We need a shelter and need affordable housing. We need a safe place for families to stay until they are back on their feet again. Families, especially those with children with handicaps need emergency shelter. Why does Martin County not have a Shelter? #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #tentcityhelpers #homelessnessinamerica #thereisnoplaceforus #helpforneedy

This is our Memorial stop on Monday. It was great to have Jan as a volunteer! She use to live in her van and now lives in a house. She used her van Monday to distribute blankets, clothing and shoes. Then we have Vicki showing off a sweater. Frankie has his meals and supplies for the week. Then we have Rhoshanda from the Treasure Coast Services Council filling out paperwork on the go... She has one of those standing desks without the desk. LOL... #outreach #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #TentCityHelpers

Reminder all buses in Martin County are now free. THE MARTY BUS IS FREE! Thank you Martin County Commissioners Blake Capps, Sarah Heard and Edward Ciampi for voting for the free to ride proposal. This is huge savings for us (not having to buy Bus Passes) and other people that are poor.

Today, Monday we make our deliveries. Here is our current schedule. If you are unhoused come meet up with us. We have the Kiwanis making our meal this week. We are so thankful to those people who step up and commit to making us a meal for our residents that are unhoused.

“There is no Place for Us” working and homelessness in America by Brian Goldstone #Thereisnoplaceforus #homelessnessinamerica #sundaymorning

We gave out new backpacks to our Veterans on Monday. We so appreciate their brave service so that we can have freedom. Thanks to all veterans housed or unhoused! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #backpacksforveterans

“There is no Place for Us” working and homelessness in America by Brian Goldstone #Thereisnoplaceforus #homelessnessinamerica #sundaymorning

December 2nd is GivingTuesday. This is the main fundraiser for Tent City Helpers. We depend on the community to support our good work. We are local, grassroots 501c3 that celebrate our 10th year serving the unhoused in Martin County. Check out our FB and Instagram page as we are trying to grow our caring and compassionate community. https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/

Thanks to Marybeth Farriss she saw a FB post about this family with 5 kids that were staying at a hotel with Tent City Helpers paying the bill so they would not have to camp. We have had so many people donate we can pay for another week. Marybeth commented that she would purchase snacks for the children. Well she followed through and bought all sorts of healthy food for the family. She and her husband delivered the food to Mom's hotel room. Mom was so happy she sent me these photos. Her little son is eating an apple and piece of cheese in the photo. Thanks so much Marybeth for caring about the needy in our community. Thanks for your generosity!! If you would like to help this family you can go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and click the donate button. Then at the top of the page there is a pencil graphic to click to add a note. Click and write for hotel and we will make sure it goes to helping this needy family. #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #GivingTuesday2025

Don't hold your breath but GivingTuesday is Dec.2nd. This is the time we invite the community to donate to our non-profit Tent City Helpers. We are local and all volunteer ensuring every dollar is spent directly in serving our residents that struggle with housing. Any amount is appreciated. Thanks in advance... https://www.facebook.com/donate/1194940459438538/

Thanks Dave for your service! #VeteransDay2025 #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #tentcityhelpers

Thanks to Bec Dowd for creating this cool refrigerator magnet. She was inspired by the post and decided to paint the post of Jerry with "Thing" on his head. LoL this made me laugh. Good Job Bec, we will make sure Jerry gets his "Hand"some portrait. #giftofanartist #GiftFromTheHeart #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness

Here is Jamie Harvey my son with Milfred. Milfred could not believe his ears when my son greeted Milfred in Pilipino. It is amazing how a greeting in a person's own language can bring a smile. Milfred asked how Jamie knew Pilipino and Jamie told him that the hospital he works at has lots of Pilipino nurses and he uses it there. Here was another personal connection made. #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #ittakesavillage

You’ve probably heard about GivingTuesday, the day the world comes together and gives back. This year it is Dec 2, 2025. It is Tent City Helpers largest fundraiser of the year. GivingTuesday the annual event dedicated to boosting radical generosity, held on the Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The idea behind GivingTuesday was to set aside a single day to counter consumerism by giving back. Launched in 2012 at the 92nd Street Y, GivingTuesday became an independent organization in 2019 and has since expanded globally. Today it includes five international hubs, GivingTuesday Spark, a youth leadership development initiative, and the GivingTuesday Data Commons, where a team of researchers track and report on trends in generosity. Today, GivingTuesday’s global network of over 110 country leaders and thousands of community leaders collaborates year-round to inspire generosity, with the shared goal of building a world where generosity is part of everyday life. “When millions unite with a shared purpose, we don’t just give what we can—we create real, tangible change. Each donation, each act of generosity, is a building block for community solutions that actually make a difference.” Asha Curran, CEO of GivingTuesday

THE MARTY BUS IS FREE! Thank you Martin County Commissioners Blake Capps, Sarah Heard and Edward Ciampi for voting for the free to ride proposal. “I'm here for the people," Deigl told commissioners Nov. 4. "Transportation is a barrier to quality of life.” We agree and that’s why we have been purchasing over $8,000 of Marty bus passes this past year. Thanks again to Blake Capps, Sarah Heard and Edward Ciampi for voting for the people struggling with transportation. This is huge savings for us and other people that are poor…

Warning this is a long post. It has been 5 years in the making. The story of our friend Ron. When we first met he had no home, telephone, ID or Birth Certificate. We made it our goal for that year to help Ron get both. We had to order the Birth Certificate then pick it up when it came in. We took Ron to LAHIA to get a letter of homelessness and then took him to the DMV to get his ID. Then the next year we put a referral into Miracle Messages in California to see if they could find any living relatives of Ron’s. After several months they contacted us that they found Ron’s sister. Gabby from Miracle Messages came with us to our Barnes and Noble stop in Jensen Beach and we were able to tell Ron that they found his sister. Super emotional to find out that his sister lives on the west coast of Florida. We were able to call his sister from our phone and Ron was able to FaceTime with his sister he had not spoken to in 14 years. His only living relative. Side note: Ron had been going to the Hoke library watching a bird camera on the computer. The bird camera was only a mile and half from his sister’s home. Ron’s sister sent him a phone.. Ron’s sister shared that their father had passed away over ten years ago and his there was an inheritance for Ron.. Then the next year was helping Ron again get his ID since he lost it… Then he had his phone stolen… Then he had his bike tires slashed… Then we helped Ron get the Covid money… Then we helped get Ron’s ID again… Then we helped Ron get his Social Security card... Then we had many lunches together at Panera to call the banking institution to submit paperwork.. to verify.. to fax… to call again…. Using Tent City Helpers address and my phone we crept towards settling his father’s will. It has taken us so long to get this sorted. But to make a long story short. Ron finally received what his father wanted him to have.. We are overjoyed for Ron but miss him already. #TentCityHelpers #helpforneedy #notaraceamarathon #caringandcompassionatecommunity

Thanks to our veterans! We celebrate Roshanda. She still uses her bravery by going into the woods to visit the people that live there. We are so blessed to have Roshanda from the Treasure Coast Services Council! #veteranthatkeepsgiving #treasurecoasthomelessservicescouncil #tentcityhelpers #VeteransDay #bethegoodintheworld

It took a long time for Ron to get his Social Security card. Ron rode his bike all the way to the Social Security office and after waiting an hour was evidently told to apply for it online. Well with no address, phone or computer that was impossible. The Librarians at Hoke Library, Ron and myself tried to apply for the SS card online. After over an hour we had no luck. Ron then wrote a letter to Brian Mast office letting them know his trouble with the government office. They called me and told us that Ron needs to make an appointment. Ron used the Library compupter and made an appointment. We then took him to his appointment and 10 days later it arrived at our address. Here is Ron with his Social Security Card after over 6 weeks of trying.... Brian Mast Assistant called yesterday to see if Ron got his card. I was able to tell her yes! #SocialSecurityAdministration #roadblocks #nowhecanwork

This is our supporter Tom Pine on the right and our board member Oats Reis (just back from a bike ride). Tom is a Vietnam Veteran and continues to give back. Tom brings us 30 snack bags a month. This Veterans Day we would like to acknowledge Tom Pine an outstanding Veteran and Citizen of Jensen Beach, Martin County. "Do your little bit of Good where you are. It's those bits of Good put together that overwhelm the World" Archbishop Desmond Tutu #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #veteranthatkeepsgiving #VeteransDay

*This is the update on our family of 5 kids. They have been at the Quality Inn in Stuart for three weeks. We paid for a week, a Facebook post we made generated enough for another week and a private donor paid for this last week. This family is going to be camping again after Friday if we are not able to acquire the additional funds needed for them to stay longer. They have been approved for HUD housing but with the government shut down puts this on hold... This family also depends on SNAP and WIC which are unsure if coming. If you would like to help keep this family safe in a hotel and not camping outside without any transportation please donate. Go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and click the donate button, type in the text box hotel. Alternatively you can mail your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily PL Jensen Beach Fl 34957. Thanks in advance... The photos are of me and one of the boys after we shopped at Walmart. Somehow he talked me into buying him a fishing pole.. haha.. The second photo are two of the kids playing at the Kiwanis' park down from their hotel room....

Jack Lemnus again has a great story in today’s TCPalm! We love Matt at Curbside Gourmet Foodtruck. He has gone around with us on our Monday deliveries feeding our folks that are unhoused. Here are a couple of our photos with our folks getting a meal 💝. Thanks Jack for letting people know where they can get food during these uncertain times.

Wow just in the nick of time before the cold front... One of our anonymous donors just donated $200 for blankets. Martha and I were able to shop at Ollie's with our 15% off coupon, tax exempt paper and get all these blankets and head lamp beanie's for $200. Thanks to our Secret Admirer for the donation and the knowledge that we will get the best deals with the funds given. We have such a caring and compassionate community! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage

I Love this photo... A huge thanks to Josh Estes from Manchester Insurance. He made a donation to cover purchasing zip-up the front Hoodies for our friends that struggle with housing. Here is Ray getting a brand new, out of the bag, Burgundy colored Sweatshirt. He was very happy and they both fist-bumped each other. The sweatshirt hoodie will be helpful during this recent cold front coming in... If you too would like to make a donation go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and hit the donate button or you could mail your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl. Jensen Beach Fl 34957. Thanks in advance! #spreadingsunshine☀️ #caringandcompassionatecommunity #appreciative #caringforthecommunity #BeABlessingToOthers #manchesterinsurance

We are all volunteers and we do not get paid in dollars but we get so much more back in love and kindness from those we serve. Every donation goes straight to helping our underserved folks that are struggling with housing. To donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.com and click the donate button or mail your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach, Fl 34957 Thanks in advance!

Donnie from Charlie’s Bar and grill served up a hardy meal of delicious smoked chicken, cowboy beans, cornbread and mac and cheese. We served 64 unhoused people. Five of them were children 😢. We had 6 new folks who needed tents that we provided. This year we have served 323 different individuals who struggle to find shelter anywhere. We need a shelter in Martin County. #ittakesavillage #ittakesavillage #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #bestvolunteersever #feedingthehomeless❤️ #sheltersneedednow #hometownfeeling❤️ #charliesbarandgrill

Wow the change of time makes our last stop at McDonald’s in front of the Treasure Coast Mall a bit dark. We served 64 folks that are unhoused. These bright smiles light everything up! If you would like to find out more or donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and click the donate button. Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #bestvolunteersever #greatcrew #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork

We will be delivering today. Donnie from Charlie’s is serving up a great meal of smoked chicken, cowboy beans, mac and cheese, cornbread. This photo is of my Son, daughter in law and granddaughter helping with deliveries last week. They returned to Toronto yesterday.. we will miss them today. #TentCityHelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #proudofcrew #Charliesbarandgrill

We are so happy that Ryan and Marla have their own apartment. Roshada evidently “made” Ryan fill out all the paperwork as a veteran to receive the benefits he earned serving our country. We are so happy!! We asked what we could provide as a house warming gift. They said a Turkey for Thanksgiving. So yes we will be providing a Turkey and all the extras for a great Thanksgiving meal. We love veterans and Roshada’s tough love 💕! # #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage

My granddaughter, Willow, and our mascot Dolly the Ninja Hampster taking a break from helping pack little candy bags to put in the snack bags. We gave out 57 grocery bags on Monday. Our way of saying “Happy Halloween”. 🎃 #happyhalloween☠️ # #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #goodheart❤ #ittakesavillage #youarethestar⭐️ #spreadingsunshine☀️

This is awesome to have free Uber rides for Veterans. We love our Veterans!! To find out more go to https://www.unitedwaymartin.org/RideUnited

This was our Iglesia Lugares Celestiales Church stop. You can see Dee, who distributed Marty Bus Passes, and our engaged couple Peter and Denisha 💕. Behind them is Josh Estes who served a meal. Then we have Kenny checking out a book from our little library. The teacher in me makes me always have some books. Kathy looks like a ganster haha. My son Jamie flew in from Canada. Then we have Pete and birthday boy Jerry! We served 57 unhoused residents. Everyone received hot homemade meal (Thanks Breanne), An ice cold Gatorade or tea, a grocery bags that has a community made snack bag, a water, a can of Ravioli, a banana, a little candy bag. Then we have a SUV filled with camping supplies, batteries, socks, etc… If you want o find out more or donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and hit the donate button. Thanks in advance! #greatcrew #bestvolunteersever #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork #feedingthehomeless❤️ #happybirthday❤️ #only83yearsold #caringandcompassionatecommunity

Thanks to Breanne Estes for making a delicious meal of Shepard’s Pie, roll, and cake or brownies for dessert. Josh Estes and his mother in Law served 57 unhoused residents. #manchesterinsurance #familytime #bestvolunteers

Thanks to Eileen Gross Krivokopich! Eileen called to find out what we most need. We have a policy of not purchasing gift cards. So Gas Station Gift cards are especially appreciated with the families we have living in cars. If you would like to donate gift cards we will distribute to a person in need. Mail to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach, Fl 34957. Thanks in advance!

Happy Birthday Jerry! Jerry's looking very "Hand" some! Jerry is on our board of directors and is such a valuable part of Tent City Helpers. Everyone loves our Dr. Walters. He is a PHD, funny, great heart and is a real southern gentleman. Jerry was raised in Martin County and graduated MCHS only a few years ago. Have a great day our dear friend! Please join us in wishing Jerry a happy birthday.... #TentCityHelpers #goodheart❤ #ittakesavillage #youarethestar⭐️ #happybirthday❤️ #only83yearsold #bestboardmemberever #everyonelovesJerry

Velma’s Birthday was on Monday. Let’s all wish Velma better luck for her 61st year on planet Earth.🌍 Happy Birthday!#gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #ittakesavillage #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate

Thanks Paulette and Marvin Crawford of the Kiwanis Club of Martin County for cooking the chicken stew and rice for Monday. We served it with bread and butter, with Nutty Buddies for dessert. Thanks to Joan who organized and delivered the food to Flagler Park where Pete loaded the food that was in crock pots to his car to serve. We served 69 unhoused people. The food was the exact amount needed. We fed everyone and no food was left. We also had the exact amount of grocery bags too. Thanks Amber, Monica, Jerry, Pete, Martha and Brenda for being great volunteers! We appreciate the team that makes the dream work!! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #feedingthehomeless❤️ #bestvolunteersever #proudofcrew #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork #kiwanisclubofmartincounty

Thanks to The PSL Downtown Lions Foundation! They have organized a local chapter at Unity Church and they donated the funds to get one of our ladies a new pair of glasses. She had a bike accident and totaled her bike and broke her glasses. We were able to get her one of our donated bikes fixed up by Carl. Then she told us how difficult it is to find her way back to her camp in the woods after work. Without being able to see well she would trip over branches getting to her camp and said she had difficultly seeing stop signs while riding her bike. She is so happy now with her new glasses. Thanks to the PSL Downtown Lions Foundation!! #TentCityHelpers #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #appreciative #spreadingsunshine☀️ #safeandsecureplacetocamp #lionsclubfoundation #glassesfortheunhoused

Congratulations to Brandon Hilliard! He is our 3,000 follower on our Facebook page. Brandon we give you a special welcome to our kind and supportive community. Thanks to all our followers for sharing posts with your friends. We have grown our caring compassionate community to 3,000 FaceBook Followers. If you haven’t followed and liked please do. Thanks in advance!! #3000followersthankyou❤️ #TentCityHelpers #caringandcompasionate #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #caringforthecommunity

🚨 URGENT – Help Keep a Mom and 5 Kids Safe! 🚨 Two days ago, we met a mother and her five young children (ages 2 to 10) who were camping just six feet from the St. Lucie River. Within ten minutes of arriving with Roshada from Treasure Coast Services Council, one of the kids went missing. We ran the shoreline in a panic searching for a child who doesn’t swim. When we finally spotted them, everyone breathed a huge sigh of relief. While Roshada and mom finished housing paperwork on the TCHSC portable Wi-Fi computer, I kept watch on the kids—ready to use my old lifeguard skills if needed. It was simply too dangerous to stay there. Thankfully, we got approval from our board for 8 days for two connecting rooms at a downtown hotel—walking distance to Publix and Kiwanis Park. The next morning, we helped the family pack up their campsite. As we cleaned, an alligator appeared, watching the 2-year-old. Again… too dangerous. Now the family is safe and smiling in the hotel, but we need help to keep them there until housing is ready (estimated 2–3 weeks). 🩵 Here’s how you can help: Go to 👉 www.tentcityhelpers.org Click Donate and write “for hotel” in the message box. The two rooms cost $190 per night, and every bit helps. They’re walking distance from everything they need—and we’ve already contacted the school to get the boys on the bus route. These kids are adorable, brave, and covered in ant bites 😢—but now they have a safe place to rest thanks to your kindness. Please help us keep them there until a permanent home is secured. 💙 Tent City Helpers – Compassion in Action. #TentCityHelpers #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #unhousedpeopleneedtorest #sheltersneedednow #treasurecoasthomelessservicescouncil #empathy

Wow! The homemade lasagna, garlic bread and meatballs were a big hit. Thanks Donnie Orr and Charlie’s Bar and Grill for providing such hearty meals to our unhoused folks. Donnie served 55 folks at our 6 stops on Monday. We so appreciate him and Charlie’s!! #TentCityHelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #appreciative #feedingthehomeless❤️ #bestvolunteersever

Thanks to Amber, Monica, Carol and the extra Hand for putting together our grocery bags. This week they packed in our grocery bags a community made snack pack, water, antiseptic wipes, little bag of Q-Tips, Vitamin C drops, a pull off the top can of pasta, a spoon and a banana. The ladies made 59 bags and we ended up serving 55 of them to our local residents that are unhoused. It was great having 7 hands working together! #TentCityHelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #spreadingsunshine☀️ #BeABlessingToOthers #proudofcrew #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork

Photojournalist Crystal Vander Weit took some great photos of our friend Christine for the TCPalm. We must not ignore these issues in Martin Coynty! #TentCityHelpers #unhousedpeopleneedshelter #safeandsecureplacetocamp #weneedtodobetter #affordablehousingsolutions #sheltersneedednow #sufferinginourcommunity

In the newspaper today Jack Lemmus does a great job of summarizing the homeless situation in Martin County. Just last weekend we had a mother of two girls, one of which is severely handicapped, have to leave Jonathan Dickerson State park. All the parks that allow camping locally have stay limits. J.D. Park’s limit is 2 weeks in a row and a total of 21 days annually. She decided to park at Jensen Beach Community Church for the night with her girls. The police came at 2am and scared the little family and was told to leave from the church’s parking lot. She said she drove around until sunrise and the had to get her girls to school. She was then running out of gas. We met up and filled her car up with gas and helped her get set up at Savannah Preserve Park where she can only stay a week. There are no other campers around at the park but still she and her daughters can only stay a week. What is wrong? You can not sleep in your car at a church? You can not legally camp but for a limited time and campsites are empty? We must as a community do better!

Feeling blessed that we were able to help this family. We were able to supply a new. 10 x 10 ft canopy and a large tent. The weather has been really hard on our friends that are unhoused. Look how this Mom’s tent ended up after the wind and rain. Tents aren’t meant to be permanent housing for this reason. All the families belonging got wet 😢. If you would like to donate to Tent City Helpers’s nonprofit, 501c3, go to our website at www.tentcityhelpers.com and click the donate button or mail your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach Fl 34957. Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #bethegoodintheworld🌍

Thanks to Everyone involved in making our Full Moon Deliveries a success. We served 54 people who are unhoused. Thanks to Amber, Martha and Monica for packing 60 grocery bags. Thanks to Cheri and Maryanne who provide the fresh fruit. Thanks to Lindsay and her daughter Ainsley for cooking the best meal ever! Thanks to Brenda, Jerry, Vicki, Pete, Josh and Kathy for doing the deliveries. Thanks to Oats for unloading the cars and putting back in storage…. It takes a village! #tentcityhelpers #ittakesavillage #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #bestvolunteers #appreciative

We need solutions!

Homelessness in Florida On any given night in Florida, an estimated 28,498 individuals experience homelessness. A common misconception is that all people experiencing homelessness are "broken" should be in mental health institutions, or are a danger to themselves or others. The data tells a different story. 20% are chronically homeless - meaning they have a disability and have experienced long-term or repeated episodes of homelessness. 17% report having a severe mental illness. 13% have a substance use disorder. These numbers ate not mutually exclusive, as some individuals experience both mental illness and substance use challenges. Most people with a mental illness or substance use disorder are housed, and most people without housing are not a danger to themselves or others. The primary reason people experience homelessness is simple - they cannot find housing they can afford. Each person's story is unique, and grouping everyone into a single narrative is neither accurate nor helpful. For more information about homelessness in Florida, please see the infographic below:

Florida has a growing homelessness crisis, ranking among the states with the most homeless individuals, and saw a 39% increase in homelessness from 2020 to 2024. Florida ranks fourth in the United States for total number of homeless individuals. With rising housing costs and lack of affordable housing contributing to the homeless crisis. Martin County has more people unhoused than St. Lucie County and St. Lucie is a larger county. We need a plan to address the growing need for affordable housing, NOW! #TentCityHelpers #civilrightsforeveryone #unhousedpeopleneedshelter #unhousedpeopleneedtorest #sufferinginourcommunity #sheltersneedednow #safeandsecureplacetocamp #weneedtodobetter #affordablehousingsolutions

Kind and generous people come in all sorts of different sizes and ethnicities. How caring is Caesar with his cute hot dog! We love our community of caring and compassionate people! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #hometownfeeling❤️ #spreadingsunshine☀️ #guitargift #goodneighboraward #caringandcompassionatecommunity #BeABlessingToOthers

Here is our friend at the Memorial Park stop. She needed a bike and we were able to give her this beauty. Thanks to Vicki who donated the bike. Thanks to Carl who works on our donated bikes and gets them all ready to ride. Our friend was very appreciative and thank us several times. If you would like to find out more or to donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and hit the donate button. Alternatively you can send your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach, Fl 34957 Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #spreadingsunshine☀️ #bikedonations #appreciative

Here we are at Flagler Park on Monday. Jeffery is wearing his new Pink Floyd T-shirt. He has such great stories of his travels with such great bands. We appreciate Jeffery's positive disposition. He always makes us smile. #FutureIsBright #youarethestar⭐️ #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork #proudofcrew #guitargift #greatestPinkFloydshirtever

Congratulations to Tent City Helpers for earning the Platinum Level of Transparency for 2025. Check out our profile if you are considering a donation. https://app.candid.org/profile/9553964/tent-city-helpers/?pkId=d8172209-6d9a-4e7d-835c-a7fb645f210f&isActive=true Platinum is a higher level of non-profit transparency than Gold. We are so proud of our consistently high ratings with grant organizers like Candid. If you are interested in donating go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and click the donate button. Alternatively you can mail us your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily PL, Jensen Beach, Fl 34957 #candidrating #transparencycounts #Platinumhigherthangold #tentcityhelpers #greatorganization

This was in Sunday’s Stuart News Paper. Seniors and families are changing the face of Who is homeless in America. According to this years HUD report Seniors and families are the fastest growing group of unhoused people. #TentCityHelpers #peopledeserveshelter #peopleneedaplacetolive #humanesolutions #Wheredotheunhousedgo

What a good community member! The man on the right is Pratt (Rod) Peterson. He brought Milfred over to pick up this huge box (86 lbs.). This is the electric bike that a special donor of ours donated for Milfred. I asked if Rod had tools that Milfred could borrow to put the bike together. He assured me that he would make sure Milfred has everything to assemble the bike. We nominate Rod Peterson for the good neighbor award!! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #ittakesavillage #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #caringandcompassionatecommunity #goodneighboraward

This was us on a gray Monday. We got rained on a bit. But coming back over the Roosevelt Bridge the sun came out. Such a great crew of volunteers! We deliver on Mondays, rain, shine or holiday! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #helpforneedy #ittakesavillage #extraspecialpeople #teamworkmakesthedreamwork #nowheretogo

This is one of the reasons we serve. The appreciation from our friends that are unhoused…. 🥰. Then the generosity of our donors. Thanks to the donor who donated the brand new white Ladies Bike. Your bike found a happy recipient! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #ittakesavillage

This was the 2,000th meal we served to Jeffery on Monday. We are such cheerleaders! Jeffery thought he was getting punked. Haha! He won a WaWas gift card donated by MacKenna, a Bluetooth speaker, and a Pink Floyd t-Shirt thanks to our donors. The meal was a whole Beacon 21 neighborhood effort. Neighbors Antonio and Carlos organized and cooked the main dish and corn soufflé. Other neighbors make different batches of cupcakes. And another neighbor made the coleslaw. Kathy Our volunteer is the other neighbor that collected the food and served 59 unhoused folks from the back of her car. Thanks so much to the great neighbors in Beacon 21 that made such a delicious homemade meal. #2000mealsserved #caringforthecommunity #teamworkmakesthedreamwork #extraspecialpeople #caringandcompassionatecommunity #TentCityHelpers #goodheart❤ #ittakesavillage

One of our women we serve was offered a job but needed black slip resistant shoes, socks and a black t-shirt. Well one of our donors stepped up and that allowed us to purchase new shoes. We get free socks from Bombas through Yamilla at Por A Vida's non-profit. Then Nancie Burke donated a freshly washed gently used woman's black t-shirt (how does she know what we need without even asking?). This Village "Rocks"! If you would like to find out more or to donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.com and hit the donate button. Thanks in advance! #readyforwork #FutureIsBright #ittakesavillage #caringandcompasionate

Please share and follow us. We want to grow our caring and compassionate community. We have 2,895 followers today let's get to 3,000 before October!

Thanks to Darlene and Jen for their donation. Quite a few years ago, Darlene was hit on her bike by a car while going to work at the hospital. She nearly lost her life. She has recovered except for her vision. It amazes me her great attitude and generous nature, wanting to help those people who do not have a home. Jen has this great t-shirt on. Jen drives for Darlene and helps her out. At Unity of Jensen Beach you can find Jen Whispering to Darlene the songs lyrics. Darlene has a great voice and is able to sing with Jen's help. "Whisper words of Wisdom, Let it be..." The Beatles... If you would like to follow Darlene and Jen's example you can go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and hit the donate button. Alternately you could send your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach, Florida 34957. Thanks in advance! #Whisperwordsofwisdom #letitbe #ittakesavillage #TentCityHelpers #caringandcompasionate #goodheart❤

We are so excited to let everyone know that Bradly has just had his book "Poetic Recovery" published. You can buy it on Amazon. We just ordered 10 copies for our library and to share with others that are in recovery. Great going Bradly!! We are so proud of our Influencer!!! #TentCityHelpers #ittakesavillage #futureisbright #happyforyou❤️ #influencersfortheunhoused #soberityrocks #beabossinyourlife #youarethestar⭐️ #artistforjustice #unhousedpoet

The Treasure Coast Foodbank’s “Out Run Hunger” 5k is tomorrow Saturday Sept. 20th at the Causeway Cove Marina, Ft. Piece. Come support a great cause. TCFB gives us Meals Ready to Eat (MREs). Thanks to Treasure Coast Foodbank!

Wow! Thanks to Christina Cunningham and the Olivet Private School-a community of homeschoolers. Christina organized and the she and her husband brought them to us. These are over 200 snack bags that they collected food for and then made them up. What a great group of students. They wrote kind notes and put in them in each snack bag. What a great experience in community compassion! Thanks to every single person that helped. You are so appreciated. #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #teamworkmakesthedreamwork #teamworkmakesthedreamworkork

We love Jelly Roll and now even more 🥰. Went to his new Bar/Music Club in Nashville, TN. It was awesome! https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BS2Fu4LvQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

This is Monday at our Iglesia Lugares Celestiales stop across from Winn Dixie on Salerno Road. Some people believe any garbage they find in the woods are unhoused folks crap. We know so many clean and tidy unhoused folks. We just hate the generalizations. Some of those garbage piles are archeological digs of people’s stuff, housed people have illegally dumped on land too. It’s a big job for an unhoused person clean up other people’s stuff and be at risk to be trespassed the next day.

This was in Tuesday’s Stuart News, “Group (Tent City Helpers) eyes homeless shelter at fairgrounds”

A big Shout out to Nancie Burke. She always makes sure we have pet food, a couple of good books (for our mini library), and double bagged grocery bags. Here is Chip and myself he was glad to get some dog food for his dog. We served 54 unhoused folks on Monday. This brings our total meals served this year to 1,993. Next week we will reach over 2,000! We served a delicious mushroom and rice soup, a roll and a oatmeal cookie for desert. Thanks to Three Little Birds Restaurant and Barney Salzberg for organizing and cooking the meal. It really takes a village and we are so glad to have so many caring and compassionate people that makes our outreach work! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #foodforourunhoused #dontcriminalizehomelessness

Good news! St. Lucie County to build a family shelter… now Martin needs to build a Shelter instead of doing nothing and depending on other counties resources…

Rudy said a prayer and gave us a recommendation. He even set a good example by taking his hat (lid) off. Then everyone takes off their caps. Rudy has his family in Stuart that’s why he doesn’t want to go to a shelter out of town. We need a shelter in Martin County. To provide shelter while people get the help and resources they need to live independent… we love Rudy’s Prayers 🙏🏼. If you would like to donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.org and hit the donate button or send your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Pl, Jensen Beach Fl 34957. Thanks in advance! #proudofcrew #peopledeserveshelter #HousingFirstWorks #prayerforunhoused #foodforourunhoused #dontcriminalizehomelessness #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #ittakesavillage #bethegoodintheworld🌍

We will carry on and never forget!

Another Cinderella Story. Thanks to the donor of these cute Dr. Scholl's sandals. We found the perfect match for them. From no shoes to cute shoes. Thanks! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #goodheart❤ #unhousedcinderella

Here was part of our handsome crew at the church, Iglesia Lugares Celestiales, parking lot. This is where we meet now instead of Winn-Dixie. They are right across the street from Winn-Dixie on Salerno Road. Thanks Jerry, Pete and Oats for giving out grocery bags and cold drinks. It threatened to rain and it was in the forecast but we managed to stay dry. #TentCityHelpers #ittakesavillage #extraspecialpeople #bestvolunteersever #proudofcrew #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

This makes it easy to donate to Tent City Helpers. Take your phone camera and focus on the QR code and click it and it will take you to PayPal to make your personal donation. We are all volunteers, the only overhead is an A.C. Storage Unit. We work hard at getting the best deals for our local unhoused residents. Your donations go directly to food, supplies and services for our most vulnerable residents. Become part of our caring and compassionate community, Tent City Helpers! #TentCityHelpers #caringandcompasionate #community #hometownfeeling❤️ #ittakesavillage #BeABlessingToOthers #feedingthehomeless❤️ #extraspecialpeople #empathy

Happy Sunday! This is our kind of Church... Our Flagler stop on Monday deliveries. Here are Jerry, Sophia, Jen, DJ and Donnie. Donnie and Jen brought their granddaughter, Sophia for a demonstration of giving in love. You can see DJ has a bag with a meal in it and a bag with all his newly acquired camping supplies and a grocery bag. We are so glad the next generation is learning about the joy of giving... If you would like to find out more about us or the joy of giving you can donate by going to www.tentcityhelpers.org or mail your donation to Tent City Helpers, 900 NW Waterlily Place, Jensen Beach, Fl 34957 Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #ittakesavillage #spreadingsunshine☀️ #futureisbright

Thanks to Sandy for volunteering and making us snack bags. As you can see Oats our Accountant, Warehouse manager, chief recycler, does all the heavy lifting around here. Thanks Sandy for coming to the rescue with snack bags for our unhoused residents. #TentCityHelpers #caringcommunity #caringforthecommunity #feedingthehomeless❤️ #extraspecialpeople #BeABlessingToOthers #caringandcompassionatecommunity

We were so excited to see Jeffery with a guitar. He has played his whole life until recently. He had been pushing Sandy in a wheelchair for so long his fingers had curled. Sandy has made her transition 2 years ago and we miss her. When he first got the guitar from Lori he said he was going to return it because his fingers just were not working right. But Jeffery said he stuck with it and now his fingers are adapting and remembering how to play. We are so glad that Lori gifted the guitar to Jeffery. He will enjoy getting his talent back! #guitargift #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #spreadingsunshine☀️

Here was our last stop on Monday at the Treasure Coast Mall McDonald's. We hate to see families not housed. We got a call yesterday from a hotel in Fort Pierce asking for help. They had a family staying there that had the Dad taken away by ICE. Now his little family has no income and no idea where their bread winner was taken. So now this little family faces homelessness. We need to make sure all our families are housed. Children deserve a stable home. Families are one of the largest groups of people becoming unhoused. We must all work together in supporting our families so they do not become unhoused... #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage #peopledeserveshelter #peopleneedaplacetolive #bestvolunteersever #proudofcrew

Thanks to Nannette and the Monday Night Women's Bible Study group at the, Family Church North Stuart, for making these huge snack bags. Our unhoused folks will really appreciate the abundance of food and caring that went into making each bag. You can see our stuffed mascot "Dolly" the ninja hamster in the background. LOL #TentCityHelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #ittakesavillage #helpforneedy #ninjahampster

Thanks to Charlie's Bar and Grill for sponsoring our meal on Monday. Thanks to Donnie and Jen for getting the food all organized and then serving the meal to our unhoused friends. The meal of Chicken fingers, pasta salad, chip and a chocolate chip cookie was enjoyed by all. We served 53 people that are unhoused and there was enough for even the volunteers to get a meal. Thanks to Donnie and Jen Orr for being such good, warm hearted, people.💕 #caringcommunity #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #bethegoodintheworld🌍 #goodheart❤

#tentcityhelpers #caringandcompasionate #helpforneedy #uhousedseniors

This was the editorial in last week’s TC Palm. We thought it was spot on…

Thanks to everyone that makes our Monday deliveries happen. We served 53 unhoused folks Monday brining our total for the year to 1890 meals served. #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #tentcityhelpers #ittakesavillage #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

We are doing deliveries on Monday, Labor Day. Donnie and Jen, from Charlie's Bar and Grill, will be serving our unhoused folks a hot meal of Chicken Tenders, pasta salad, potato chips and chocolate chip cookies. We will have snack bags and ice cold Gatorades and iced tea. We will also have bug spray and camping supplies. To find out more or to donate go to www.tentcityhelpers.org. Thanks in advance! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #ittakesavillage #charliesneighborhoodbarandgrill #servingtheunhoused

This was on our Monday deliveries. Here are Denisha and Pete enjoying the home smoked pork sliders. They were happy to have a meal fixed with love 💕. We give positive regard to all our unhoused friends building relationships and trust… we are spreading that hometown feeling! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #hometownfeeling❤️ #caringandcompasionate #ittakesavillage

Thanks to Brenda and her son for smoking the pork in their smoker and then making pulled pork sliders, coleslaw, cookie and rice Krispy Treat for our unhoused folks. We served 49 people that were thankful for a meal, ice cold Gatorade, grocery bag, and camping supplies. Thanks Brenda and son your kindness and efforts do not go unnoticed! So glad you are part of our village… #tentcityhelpers #hometownfeeling❤️ #goodheart❤ #helpforneedy #kindandcaring #greatvolunteers

Call us crazy but what would Jesus do?

This makes my heart sing 🎵.... Ryan and his wife were put into a hotel until housing is found where he will be able to use his veteran's HUD voucher. Ryan told us he slept like a baby. He turned the thermostat down to 61 degrees and slept like Rip Van Winkle. Can you imagine sleeping outdoors in south Florida for three years and then get a night in AC. Sleep is so important to health, mental well being and ability to work. Both Ryan and his partner are working. We wish them the best and will help them make the transition. Thanks to Roshada and the tough ladies at the Surge Event. Ryan said jokingly that the ladies some with biceps bigger than his made him sign up for all the benefits he qualified for being a veteran. We all laughed ... I'll post in the comments Ryan's military photo. He is such a nice, kind human bean!! #TentCityHelpers #gettingtotheheartofhomelessness #ittakesavillage #outreachforhouseless #treasurecoasthomelessservicescouncil #teamworkmakesthedreamwork #futureisbright #nolongerunhoused