Rising Together with Fundraising Initiative "Rising Tide"
The Melendi Family. (Photo provided by Crosby Melendi)
Like most of us, Elon University senior Crosby Melendi has been on her fair share of walks during this COVID-19 quarantine. There was one particular stroll, however, during the first week of quarantine that resulted in the Melendi family remaining on their feet for the entirety of quarantine.
The group of four sparked up a conversation about the unfortunate stories of family friends who had to lay off dozens of restaurant employees due to the current climate. This heartbreaking reality stuck with the family, and they decided they couldn’t just sit back and watch it happen. As a result, Rising Tide Tampa Bay was born.
Rising Tide Tampa Bay. (Photo provided by Crosby Melendi)
Rising Tide Tampa Bay is a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting local restaurants as well as those most vulnerable during this time. Using money raised within the community—over $15,000 and counting—the family buys meals from local restaurants to feed people on the frontlines, such as healthcare workers and police officers, as well as the homeless population and senior citizens.
To the family, this initiative is not only a way to support those struggling due to COVID-19, but it is also a way to bring hope to the entire Tampa community.
“We want Rising Tide Tampa Bay to not only support the restaurant and frontline workers but also provide a way for everyday people to connect with the community and make a positive impact on someone’s life,” said Melendi. “Right now, things like that go a long way.”
Throughout the weeks since Rising Tide Tampa Bay’s conception, its positive impact has certainly not gone unnoticed. The family has received countless calls and emails from front line workers expressing their thanks. Even ordinary people within the Tampa community have been inspired by the family’s work and have asked to help with deliveries.
While this time has been difficult, Melendi has found that Rising Tide Tampa Bay has given her a sense of purpose and Tampa pride amidst the chaos.
Melendi bringing food to a local fire station. (Photo provided by Crosby Melendi)
“I have a newfound appreciation for my hometown because of this. People in the community, especially the restaurant workers, have been so generous—donating to the cause even when they themselves are struggling,” said Melendi. “This project has shown me and my family that everyone is in this together.”
If you are interested in donating to Rising Tide Tampa Bay, you can donate on their GoFundMe page (https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-rising-tide?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet) or Venmo @ARisingTide.