Naples, FL (March 14, 2022) — Pelican Bay residents have teamed up with homeowners’ associations (HOAs), clubs, and businesses throughout the community to produce what is expected to be the biggest food drive in the 34-year history of St. Matthew’s House. The value of food donations made to last year’s food drive by Pelican Bay residents was over $40,000.
The food drive takes place March 21-25. The event is spearheaded by Pelican Bay residents and Cochairs Barbara Davin and Julie Wade with logistical assistance from St. Matthew’s House. More than 55 groups and businesses, including Club Pelican Bay, the many HOAs within Pelican Bay, the Pelican Bay Rotary, Germain Lexus and Germain Honda of Naples are taking part in the food drive to date. The public also can participate by delivering non-perishable food items to Germain Lexus of Naples at 13491 N. Tamiami Trail or Germain Honda of Naples at 3295 Pine Ridge Road.
According to Davin, “The support of the Pelican Bay Rotary has boosted our success in a significant way. Members have signed up their communities and businesses. They also have volunteered to deliver and retrieve bins to the participating HOAs. As of today, there are 4,956 residences, 53 HOAs and some businesses participating. In addition, St. Matthew’s House Food Warehouse Supervisor Alesi Fernandez and Director of Food Assistance Lorna McClain have been fantastically helpful. Food drives for St. Matthew’s House touch the giver and the receiver. The simple act of donating food includes the gift of hope.”
St. Matthew’s House operates the only emergency homeless shelters in Collier County, and provides emergency and transitional housing for more than 300 men, women and children every night. St. Matthew’s House also operates the only Collier County facility approved for public feeding, providing more than 500,000 meals each year for St. Matthew’s House residents and those in the community who are suffering from chronic hunger.
St. Matthew’s House CEO Steve Brooder stated, “We are so grateful for Barbara Davin and Julie Wade and all involved with this huge food drive that will provide both nourishment and hope to our neighbors who are experiencing food insecurity and homelessness. This is the third year for this incredible event and, each year, it grows bigger and draws more people who want to help those served by St. Matthew’s House.”
To view the official press release document, click here.
