Fort Myers Food Bank Seeks Donations for Thanksgiving Meal Program

Community Cooperative in Fort Myers is collecting donations for its Full Plates Project to provide Thanksgiving meals to families facing food insecurity. The privately funded nonprofit needs $50 to provide one complete holiday meal with turkey, potatoes, carrots, and corn.

Janelle Olson, Director of Development, spoke about the donation options. "Our holiday meal kits are a way for our community to directly support families and individuals facing food insecurity," said Olson, according to Gulf Coast News. "Donors assemble kits that include the staples for a complete holiday meal so recipients can enjoy a nourishing and celebratory holiday meal."

The initiative has been running for many years. It makes sure families, seniors, and individuals have access to meals during the holiday season.

Donors can put together custom meal kits at home. People can place items in a laundry basket with a frozen turkey and bring the complete package to the Fort Myers location. Fresh produce and dairy items are accepted but need to be delivered directly to staff rather than placed in food drive boxes.

"People can donate monetarily, drop off food items, host a drive at their workplace or church, volunteer, or simply help us spread the word on social media," Olson said.

The organization doesn't receive government funding. It depends on contributions from the local area to operate.

The facility accepts walk-in donations at its Fort Myers location. More information about monetary contributions appears on the organization's website.