St. Petersburg Collegiate High School Students Lead Hurricane Relief Bake Sale, Raising Funds for Community Recovery

2/26/2025

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which struck Florida and left a profound impact on the Tampa Bay area, students at St. Petersburg Collegiate High School, Tarpon Campus, demonstrated an inspiring commitment to support those in need. A group of dedicated students, including Gabi Goldman, Anna Manolakos, Maggie Humphrey, Isabel Socorro and Tommy Flood, organized a bake sale to raise funds for the college community affected by the storms. Their efforts not only raised several hundred dollars but also exemplified the spirit of resilience and unity that St. Petersburg College holds dear.

The students' dedication extended beyond immediate fundraising efforts. Recognizing the broader impact of the hurricanes on their community, they rallied to support not only their school but the entire St. Petersburg College community. The funds raised were directed to the St. Petersburg College Foundation, earmarked for those most affected by the storms. Additionally, through local partnerships, students distributed essentials like food, plastic storage bins and gift cards, ensuring that those in need received both immediate and long-term assistance.

Gabi Goldman, who experienced the devastation firsthand, felt personally connected to the cause: "Seeing the destruction in my own neighborhood made me grateful to help others facing similar challenges."

Tommy Flood highlighted the value of taking initiative: "This started as a shared idea and bringing it to life showed me the power of action."

This bake sale underscored the importance of service to the St. Petersburg College community and beyond. Principal Ryan Halstead reflected on the school’s core values, stating, “This group embodies the spirit of a community that cares. They’ve shown what it means to be true leaders—through action, not titles. Their dedication to service is inspiring, and I’m incredibly proud of each one of them.” Their initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, resilience and service that define St. Petersburg College and the lasting impact that even small acts of kindness can have on a community.