Local philanthropists Trevor Burgess and Gary Hess have committed $5 million to the St. Pete Free Clinic (SPFC) to anchor Care Forward, an ambitious five-year, $100 million initiative aimed at expanding community support services across Pinellas County.
The record gift will fund a new flagship facility in South St. Petersburg designed to unite nutritious food distribution, expanded medical care, and social service navigation under one roof.
ADVERTISEMENT
Integrated Approach to Community Care
Through the Care Forward campaign, SPFC aims by 2030 to reach all 260,000 food-insecure residents in Pinellas County with fresh produce and groceries, while expanding healthcare services to 20,000 uninsured adults.
The $100 million plan allocates $80 million for direct program growth, $10 million for capital projects (including the South St. Petersburg facility) and $10 million for the clinic’s long-term financing.
“Trevor and Gary’s extraordinary gift reflects a deep understanding of what is possible when care is connected in one place,” said Jennifer Yeagley, CEO of SPFC. “This investment will help create a lasting community resource where neighbors can find nourishment, healing, and practical support with dignity.”
From $1,000 to $5 Million
The landmark gift represents the evolution of a 14-year relationship between the donors and SPFC, which began with an initial $1,000 donation in 2012. Over time, both Burgess and Hess became deeply involved in the clinic’s day-to-day operations. Hess joined the Board of Directors in 2019 and regularly volunteered at the Jared S. Hechtkopf Community Food Bank, while Burgess mobilized corporate support through Neptune Flood Insurance.
“Volunteering allowed me to meet the people behind the numbers and see what reliable access to nutritious food can mean for a family,” said Hess, for who SPFC’s volunteer program was named in 2024 following a previous $1 million matching gift.
“We believe in Care Forward because it pairs bold ambition with a proven ability to deliver,” added Burgess. “This gift is an investment in the people of Pinellas County and in a model of care that can change the trajectory of a life.”
How to Get Involved
SPFC leaders hope this major gift will inspire broader community participation as the organization works toward its 2030 vision. Community members and local organizations can support the campaign and clinic operations by volunteering or making a contribution.
To learn more about getting involved or contributing to the Care Forward initiative, visit www.thespfc.org/careforward/.
