A growing trend this 4th of July is helping some local churches raise money for outreach programs.

  • Tabernacle of Hope raising money for Sulphur Springs community
  • Fundraising by fireworks sales
  • Two fireworks tents open all day July 4 - locations below

Tabernacle of Hope in Sulphur Springs is running two fireworks tents in Tampa this year. Congregation members told us the money raised from fireworks sales will go right back into the Sulphur Springs community.
 
Darriel Williams, working the fireworks tent counter on July 4, said in recent years it has been harder for the church to raise money.
 
"It's almost like a competition trying to get funds in to do something positive," Williams said.
 
Sulphur Springs is home to some of the most underserved and at risk kids in the City of Tampa.  Although the city has worked hard there to curb crime, local churches say there is still a need for support.
 
"It's getting better," said congregation member Jimmy Solomon.  "Lot of work to be done.  We've made some headway, but still a lot more to do."
 
Solomon said money raised from fireworks sales this year will help feed children this summer that would otherwise not get breakfast and lunch while schools are on break.
 
In addition, he said the church hopes to open a private K-5 school in the fall, giving kids a more focused education.
 
"It's a Christian based program," Solomon said. "Going to be a blessing, to not only the kids, but for the whole neighborhood and the community and their families."
 
Tabernacle of Hope has two firework tents open all day today.  One is located in the Walmart parking lot at Dale Mabry Highway and I-275.  The other is located at the intersection of Himes and Hillsborough Avenue.