For nearly 40 years, The Coffee Shop at 6220 N Nebraska Ave was a lifeline for people experiencing homelessness in Tampa. It wasn’t just a place to grab coffee—it was a place to shower, do laundry, receive mail, access the internet, and most importantly, connect with counselors and case managers who helped rebuild lives.

But in July 2025, The Shop was forced to close after a sudden loss of federal funding. Today, the space sits empty—its chairs stacked, its hopeful posters still clinging to the walls—while hundreds of people who relied on it are left with nowhere else to go.

There is no other place like The Shop in the state of Florida. Its closure represents not just the loss of a building, but the loss of a crucial support system that helped individuals transition from survival to stability.

A coalition of churches, nonprofits, and community members is fighting to reopen The Shop, with WellBuilt Cities—a trusted Tampa-based nonprofit—stepping up to lead. But they can’t do it alone. They’ve already raised $60,000 and need at least $90,000 more to secure the lease and restart basic operations. While federal resources have disappeared, local leaders have the power to step in and ensure this vital service doesn’t vanish for good.

We call on Mayor Jane Castor, Tampa City Council, and Hillsborough County Commissioners to provide immediate financial and logistical support to help reopen The Coffee Shop and preserve Florida’s only one-stop drop-in center for people experiencing homelessness.

This is not just about funding—it’s about protecting the dignity, safety, and humanity of our neighbors. When government safety nets fail, local leadership must rise to meet the need.

Let’s not let an 8,400-square-foot building of hope turn into another empty shell. Sign now to help reopen The Shop.