Fort Myers Charity Event Pulls in $162,000 to Help Fight Local Hunger Crisis

At The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 300 people came together on Sept. 25, 2025, raising $162,000 to combat hunger in Southwest Florida. The yearly fundraiser, run by Community Cooperative, drew strong support from local residents.

Guests stepped into a Mad Hatter wonderland, complete with tea service and a packed silent auction room. The funds will support food programs across the region, where many families struggle to put meals on their tables.

"This event would not have been possible without our sponsors, donors and all of our community supporters who helped make this a success," said Stefanie Ink Edwards, CEO of Community Cooperative, according to Priority Marketing. "As the need for our services continues to grow each year, events like this are vital to our mission."

The 19th annual Becoming Cosmopolitan: Mad About Hunger event was presented by FineMark National Bank & Trust. Friends of Kevin Ruane sponsored the night as Wonderland Memories Sponsor. Custom Packaging and Products joined Florida Power and Light to support the Mad Tea Party Lounge.

Proceeds will benefit services like Sam's Community Café and Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, and local mobile pantries.

Since 1984, Community Cooperative has stood strong in Southwest Florida. Their work spans from filling empty stomachs to teaching life skills, while lending a hand to those without homes.