ABC Action News Gives raises over $4,100 for Florida food bank

BRANDON, Florida – A few months ago we introduced you to Martha Diaz, founder of The Three B’s Ministry.

It is a food bank that Diaz founded after she herself became homeless nearly a decade ago.

“This is not just a dream. This is a labor of love,” said Martha Diaz.

In April, she was afraid of having to close her food bank in Valrico after the building had to close for renovations.

But a generous viewer saw our story and offered to share his building space, where he helps the homeless, with Diaz.

“I’m going to feel like I’ve let everyone down. I’m going to feel like I can’t do it,” Diaz explained.

“Whatever she needs will be done, within about a week,” said Chirag Amin, the spectator who offered his seat.

And so Diaz continues to provide food to nearly 150 families every Wednesday through his nonprofit organization, now located on Lithia Pinecrest Road in Brandon.

“You don’t have to dream big. You just have to dream,” Diaz said.

She continued to dream of serving even more people, but needed a refrigerated truck. And here you, our viewers, have stepped in again to help with our latest ABC Action News Gives initiative.

ABC Action News anchor Wendy Ryan went to Three B’s Ministry to show Diaz how our viewers offered their help.

“Martha, thank you for all that you do. And on behalf of our ABC Action News Gives Initiative and the many generous viewers out there. And along with the Anidjar and Levine law firm, we would like to present you with a check for $4,164. And of course, this will go toward your refrigerated truck. I really hope it helps,” said Wendy Ryan.

“Yes, of course! It’s a big help! We’re a small ministry, so our donations go a long way. We’ll still be able to get the refrigerated truck. This is a huge boost. So I’m really grateful to you,” Diaz said.

Attorney Jovanni Fiallo of Anidjar and Levine explains why his firm wanted to get involved.

“Whenever we hear a great story like this where someone has had bad luck and turns their fortunes around, they’re not only helping themselves, they’re helping everyone else. Why wouldn’t we want to be a part of that? It just means a lot to us to be able to give back to the community and help with a story like Martha’s,” Fiallo explained.

Despite the warm weather, over 30 volunteers joined Three B’s Ministry to donate food and improve the lives of countless people.

Now Diaz is looking forward to an even better future.

“I have to say, thank you very much,” said Diaz.

For more information about The Three B’s Ministry and how to volunteer, click here.