Church Donates $38,000 To Wipe Out Lunch Debt For Students

LUTZ, FL — Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz will pay off lunch debt for all students in Pasco County schools and all juniors and seniors in Hillsborough County public schools.

The church is donating $17,000 to eliminate all lunch debt for students in Pasco County, and $21,367.33 to juniors and seniors in Hillsborough County.

The church's senior pastor, the Rev. Ken Whitten, said the members of the church wanted to let families in the area know they have support, even during these uncertain times. They hope parents will view their donation as a source of hope during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We can’t thank Idlewild Baptist Church enough for this generous donation,” said Kurt Browning, Pasco County superintendent of schools. “This will really make a difference. It will come as a relief to so many families, especially at a time when many are struggling.”

“This act of kindness from Idlewild comes at a time when many of our families need additional support to help make ends meet," said Addison Davis, Hillsborough County superintendent of schools. "We deeply appreciate faith-based community partners like Idlewild whose dedication and generosity provide critical support and hope for families across Hillsborough County."

School officials noted that student debt can impact a senior's ability to participate in graduation ceremonies. Now, seniors in both counties won't have to worry about outstanding debt interfering with end-of-year activities.

Idlewild Baptist Church was founded in 1934 on Idlewild Avenue in Seminole Heights in Tampa but moved to its current 42-acre site at 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd. in Lutz in 1993 after outgrowing its original church.

Now a mega-church, Idlewild built one of Florida’s largest worship centers at 440,000 square feet. The $73 million worship center has a sanctuary that can hold more than 5,000 people, including a 210-voice choir and a 75-piece orchestra.

See related stories:

• Free Lunches Available To All Hillsborough County Students
• Pasco Announces Major Changes to School Meal Program