Federal Cuts Eliminate AmeriCorps Roles at Metropolitan Ministries, Disrupting Services for Tampa Bay’s Homeless Community
Metropolitan Ministries has been notified by Volunteer Florida that its AmeriCorps National and Direct programs, including those supporting the award-winning Metro BrigAIDe initiative, have been eliminated due to federal budget cuts from the Corporation for National and Community Service. This decision impacts approximately 30 AmeriCorps members who serve vulnerable populations across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties.
“The Metro BrigAIDe was created to meet a vital community need, and AmeriCorps helped make that possible,” said Tim Marks, president and CEO of Metropolitan Ministries. “With these cuts, human beings—many of whom have no one else—will be left without help. We’re heartbroken, but we are not giving up. We are committed to finding a way forward so that the BrigAIDe can continue this life-saving work.”
In response, Metropolitan Ministries is reallocating approximately $550,000 to create 11 new non-federally funded positions and will use community donations to offer a small severance to assist impacted AmeriCorps members. Those team members are invited to apply for newly created or existing roles within the organization.
To regroup and restructure, Metropolitan Ministries will pause most of its mobile street outreach operations for one month, limiting services to a few key locations. During this time, the organization will focus on developing a new staffing model and securing the financial support needed to sustain the BrigAIDe’s critical services.
Academic Success Advisors, who joined the Metro AmeriCorps education program in February through a pilot initiative, are also affected. The organization is working to identify opportunities for them within Metro or through community partners.
Over the past eight years, 132 AmeriCorps members have served over 137,000 hours at Metropolitan Ministries.
Community support is urgently needed to continue this life-saving work with a pared-down team. Stabilizing funding now is essential to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness in our region can continue to rely on consistent outreach and care in the future. To contribute or learn more about supporting the Metro BrigAIDe program, call 813.209.1218 or make a donation today.
Metro BrigAIDe Impact
The Metro BrigAIDe program, built on the foundation of national service, has provided life-saving outreach for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness—connecting them with hot meals, healthcare, housing assistance, and benefits navigation. Since its launch in 2018, the Metro BrigAIDe has received national recognition and has helped thousands of individuals access critical support. In its first year alone, the team made nearly 2,000 street contacts and helped more than 200 individuals secure housing or reunite with family. Metro’s BrigAIDe team continues to be a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable in our community—like Nelson, an 81-year-old deaf man who had been experiencing homelessness for four years. Through the dedication of our BrigAIDe team and our partnership with Pasco Hope, Nelson was recently placed into safe and stable housing, giving him a renewed sense of dignity and security. Nelson’s story is one of thousands made possible by AmeriCorps-supported programming at Metro. Our BrigAIDe team, powered by AmeriCorps members, provides direct outreach and connection to vital services for individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship across the Tampa Bay region. However, current funding challenges are putting these life-changing services at risk. Without sustained support, individuals like Nelson could go without the help they desperately need—housing, care, and hope for a better tomorrow. Metropolitan Ministries remains committed to serving those in crisis, but we need the support of our community, local leaders, and funding partners to continue this mission. Here’s a more detailed breakdown: What it is: How it works: Who can participate: Benefits: Where it’s active: Impact:
*Nelson embracing a BrigAIDe member in his new home.*About AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps is a federal agency that supports national service programs.
It provides funding and support to organizations that address community needs.
AmeriCorps members are volunteers who serve in a variety of settings, including nonprofits, schools, and government agencies.
Participants receive a living allowance, housing, and educational assistance. They also gain valuable experience, build skills, and make a positive impact on their communities.
AmeriCorps programs are located across the United States, with a wide range of service opportunities available.
AmeriCorps has a significant impact on addressing critical needs in communities, improving lives, and fostering civic engagement.