March to a Million Meals: Southwest Florida Unites Against Hunger

WINK News, together with its viewers and local businesses, has surpassed its goal of providing 1 million meals to Southwest Florida families in need. As of February 19 at 1 p.m., donations to the March to a Million Meals campaign have reached an impressive 1,022,604 meals.

For the bigger picture, see our Estero area guide and our comparison of the best real estate agents in Estero. Related reading on our blog: Introducing BERT: Bringing the Bonita Estero Rail Trail to Lee County and Get Ready to Lace Up for a Good Cause at Coconut Point Mall's 5K Run/Walk!.

Lois Thome, WINK News Anchor, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming community support: "So thrilled with how the community has embraced March to a Million Meals with both arms. This is truly a community-wide effort. Our donors have erased the stress so many people are feeling about feeding themselves and their families."

Every dollar raised translates to $2 in meals supported by the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, with $6 being enough to feed a family of four. Despite the significant progress, the need for assistance persists, as over a quarter of a million people in the region rely on the Harry Chapin Food Bank every month to put food on their tables.

Stuart Haniff, Chief Development Officer for Harry Chapin Food Bank, emphasized the severity of the situation: "We have one in eight adults who don’t know where their next meal is coming from across our five-county footprint of Southwest Florida. Even sadder, one in six children have to go to bed hungry."

The campaign is ongoing, with donations still being accepted until March 1. Last year, viewers contributed over $528,000, and this year's total currently stands at $511,301 and continues to grow.

WINK News encourages the Southwest Florida business community to join the fight against hunger. Participating businesses not only contribute to a vital cause but also receive recognition during WINK News broadcasts. This opportunity allows businesses to demonstrate their commitment to the community and make a meaningful impact.

Businesses interested in contributing can contact 239-479-5548 or email [email protected].

Let's continue to stand united in supporting our neighbors and ensuring that no one in Southwest Florida goes hungry. Together, we can make a difference. Read more about it HERE.