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Shopping for Christmas gifts in the Tampa Bay area is always a fun and exciting time, especially considering the wealth of amazing shops that specialize in assortments of unique and affordable gifts.
Given the sheer number of options, shopping can be a little overwhelming. Fortunately, this article will list some of the best places to shop for Christmas gifts in St. Petersburg just a short drive over the bridge. If you still have some Christmas shopping left to do, this should be more than enough to help you out.
If you are shopping for someone who loves beach-themed gifts, look no further than Simply Perfect. This nautical-themed store has a variety of gifts for the beach lover in your life. Check them out if you are looking for any of the following:
Simply Perfect is located in the Corey Avenue Shopping District, which houses several other boutiques. It’s the perfect place to find a unique and special gift for just about anyone.
Whether you live in a local residential neighborhood or in assisted living in Saint Petersburg, Florida, the Corey Avenue Sunday Market is a must-see. This lovely market has an assortment of homemade goods, crafts, and produce from over 80 local vendors. These unique items make perfect gifts for just about any setting.
Here is a glimpse of some of the Christmas gifts you will find:
Whether you’re shopping for unique, homemade clothing, jewelry, or even produce, you’re likely to find that and more at the Corey Avenue Sunday Market. Additionally, it’s a great way to support local businesses in St. Petersburg.
Located in the Corey Avenue Shopping District, Coastal Cottage is the perfect place to find custom furniture. They specialize in handmade pieces but carry vintage pieces as well. The custom pieces are crafted by local artists, while the vintage items have been restored by thrifters who understand the intricacies of the Florida landscape.
The items available at Coastal Cottage include the following:
All of the items they stock have a distinct beach vibe that is uniquely suited to the Florida landscape. If you’re shopping for someone who wants a gift that has been curated for the Florida landscape, this is the place to look.
Betty Shop is a quaint, family-owned business specializing in stylish clothing and accessories. Even better, the shop donates a percentage of all profits to marine education and conservation.
You can find the following gifts at Betty Shop:
In addition to their regularly stocked items, Betty Shop also offers a selection of retreats and workshops. So if you can’t decide on a physical gift, you can always give an experience instead!
St. Petersburg assisted living has its own unique flow. If you have a friend or relative who lives in one of these facilities, there are a variety of unique gifts available at any of the shops listed above that they are sure to love. Here are some suggestions:
When searching for an ideal gift, it’s almost impossible to go wrong if it comes from the heart. Any of the shops listed above are sure to have something unique and exciting for any of your loved ones.
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
Westminster Manor is a dream for a LifePlan Community! Those seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle without the hassle of household chores and maintenance. It's wonderful to hear that life at Westminster Manor doesn't replace an active lifestyle but enhances it, providing residents with the freedom to pursue their happiness however they choose.The wide range of activities available, from wellness programs to lifelong learning opportunities, ensures that residents can stay engaged and stimulated, contributing to their overall well-being. And for those moments when relaxation is preferred, residents can simply kick back and enjoy the comforts of their beautifully appointed residences, complete with modern appliances and customizable features.The convenience of having upkeep tasks like maintenance and lawn care taken care of allows residents to focus on the activities they love, whether it's taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying delicious restaurant-style meals, or socializing with friends and neighbors.The value offered at Westminster Manor is evident not only in the quality of the residences but also in the access to fantastic amenities and services like the exclusive My W Life wellbeing program, fitness center, on-site security, housekeeping, and scheduled transportation. It's clear that Westminster Manor is dedicated to providing a vibrant and enriching lifestyle for its residents, ensuring that every day is filled with opportunities for joy and fulfillment.
Westminster Manor is a dream for a LifePlan Community! Those seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle without the hassle of household chores and maintenance. It's wonderful to hear that life at Westminster Manor doesn't replace an active lifestyle but enhances it, providing residents with the freedom to pursue their happiness however they choose.The wide range of activities available, from wellness programs to lifelong learning opportunities, ensures that residents can stay engaged and stimulated, contributing to their overall well-being. And for those moments when relaxation is preferred, residents can simply kick back and enjoy the comforts of their beautifully appointed residences, complete with modern appliances and customizable features.The convenience of having upkeep tasks like maintenance and lawn care taken care of allows residents to focus on the activities they love, whether it's taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying delicious restaurant-style meals, or socializing with friends and neighbors.The value offered at Westminster Manor is evident not only in the quality of the residences but also in the access to fantastic amenities and services like the exclusive My W Life wellbeing program, fitness center, on-site security, housekeeping, and scheduled transportation. It's clear that Westminster Manor is dedicated to providing a vibrant and enriching lifestyle for its residents, ensuring that every day is filled with opportunities for joy and fulfillment.
Westminster Manor is a dream for a LifePlan Community! Those seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle without the hassle of household chores and maintenance. It's wonderful to hear that life at Westminster Manor doesn't replace an active lifestyle but enhances it, providing residents with the freedom to pursue their happiness however they choose.The wide range of activities available, from wellness programs to lifelong learning opportunities, ensures that residents can stay engaged and stimulated, contributing to their overall well-being. And for those moments when relaxation is preferred, residents can simply kick back and enjoy the comforts of their beautifully appointed residences, complete with modern appliances and customizable features.The convenience of having upkeep tasks like maintenance and lawn care taken care of allows residents to focus on the activities they love, whether it's taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying delicious restaurant-style meals, or socializing with friends and neighbors.The value offered at Westminster Manor is evident not only in the quality of the residences but also in the access to fantastic amenities and services like the exclusive My W Life wellbeing program, fitness center, on-site security, housekeeping, and scheduled transportation. It's clear that Westminster Manor is dedicated to providing a vibrant and enriching lifestyle for its residents, ensuring that every day is filled with opportunities for joy and fulfillment.