Ninety-six women making a difference

Sun City Center has countless clubs and organizations, many of which provide support for neighbors in need. One Hundred Women Who Care, however, is unique.  They meet but four time a year.  When they meet, each member brings her checkbook!

Since the inception of the South Shore Chapter in 2012, these women have given a stunning $100,000 to local charities to make a difference in the lives of others.  Most recently, Our Lady's Pantry benefited from their generosity.

Tom and Anita accepting check from One Hundred Women Who Care!

Tom Bullaro, co-director of the Pantry along with his wife Anita, was astonished recently to receive 96 checks for $100!

“Nothing like this has ever happened before,” says Bullaro.

“We are overwhelmed by the kindness of so many individuals, as reflected by this gift.”

This $9,600 was used towards the purchase of a used refrigerated truck that the Pantry bought just this week.  Regrettably, the Pantry's old truck, donated by The Interfaith Council some years ago, is not refrigerated.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture, and our regional food bank, Feeding Tampa Bay, now require that vehicles transporting fresh and frozen foods be refrigerated.

“The women who brought us the checks from 100 Women Who Care arrived just as our old truck was pulling in from the food bank,” says Bullaro.  “They saw first hand how badly we needed a new vehicle.  They were in awe over what we all do to help feed the hungry.”

According to Bullaro, the Pantry has volunteer Terri Hardman to thank for sharing the story of Our Lady's Pantry with her group.  While Hardman volunteers for a number of local non-profits, she feels that the Pantry is most in need.

“I had about 20 minutes to describe the work of the Pantry and to answer questions,” Hardman says.  “Two other charities were nominated that day but, when it came time to vote, Our Lady's Pantry was awarded the donation.  Then all 96 women wrote a check.”

If you wish more information about 100 Women Who Care, please visit them at: www.100wwcsouthshore.wix.com/tampa