Immense Generosity Helps Season of Sharing Soar to New Heights in its 20th Year

Just a few months ago, The Patterson Foundation welcomed and celebrated Season of Sharing’s 20th year. Season of Sharing pulls together our collective efforts to bring hope to members of our community who are on the verge of losing the comfort of their homes. And during this monumental year in Season of Sharing’s history, our region’s generosity helped the annual campaign reach new milestones.

This continued generosity — throughout and beyond the holiday season — helped Season of Sharing reach its largest donation total since the annual campaign began 20 years ago, raising more than $2.5 million from over 3,000 individual gifts to support members of the community on the verge of homelessness. The record-breaking total includes $400,000 from The Patterson Foundation through four separate $100,000 contributions triggered each time the community raised $500,000 for Season of Sharing from November 2019 through January 2020. This is the most $100,000 gifts The Patterson Foundation has given to Season of Sharing since it began contributing them at each $500,000 milestone five years ago.

Each year, Season of Sharing harnesses the community’s generosity to support people and families in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties who are on the verge of losing their homes. Since its inception in 2000, the annual campaign has provided nearly $24 million in emergency funding for more than 35,000 families and individuals in the region. The Patterson Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the annual campaign, contributing $4.5 million since 2010.

“As Season of Sharing wraps up another inspiring year, with donors throughout our region contributing more than any previous campaign, The Patterson Foundation is honored to increase its contribution as well,” said Debra Jacobs, president and CEO of The Patterson Foundation. “It has been incredible to witness the evolution of a movement that affirms our community’s generous spirit each year. Those who helped Season of Sharing reach this milestone should feel proud and touched by the impact it has on so many of our neighbors.”

Created by the Herald-Tribune Media Group in partnership with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Season of Sharing aspires to stop homelessness before it happens. The annual campaign acts as a vital safety net for individuals and families, providing the critical assistance they need to get back on their feet and remain in their homes. Funds raised through Season of Sharing help cover emergency expenses like medical bills, transportation, child care, and rent. Of those who receive support through Season of Sharing, 85 percent do not seek additional assistance the following year.

Each year, the staff of the Herald-Tribune Media Group, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, media partners, and more than 60 nonprofit organizations donate their time and resources to ensure that 100 percent of the funds raised through Season of Sharing serve those in need.

Visit www.CFSarasota.org to learn more about Season of Sharing, and join the conversation on social media using #SeasonOfSharing.