Barefoot Christmas Party to benefit food pantry
Dec. 15 event will feature Yard Dog Charlie
Charlie Kuchler, better known locally as Yard Dog Charlie, says he tries to play benefit gigs on the island approximately four times a year. On Wednesday, Dec. 15, he’ll be at it again with A Barefoot Christmas Party at Bert’s Bar at 4271 Pine Island Road in Matlacha, as he is orchestrating a benefit for the Pine Island Food Pantry.
Local food pantries have been depleted due to the pandemic, so his hope is that people will open their hearts, get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy the beautiful view of Matlacha Pass, Kuchler said. “We will be collecting non-perishable food to donate to the Pine Island Food Pantry. There will be raffles and drink and food specials, too, some original artwork by local artist Diane Greenwoman Wickes and a turkey, among other donated prizes. Everyone that donates food, supplies or money gets raffle tickets,” Kuchler said.
Kuchler said part of the reason for this benefit is the reputation the Pine Island Pantry has created for continuously helping those in need. Benefits like these, he said, tend to turn out well financially. People are welcome to donate food, cash or write a check to the food pantry.
“The big thing is, something like this can really help people through the times we’re living in right now — to put a smile on their face or give them a nice holiday. If people want to just stop in and say “hi” or “merry Christmas,” that would be great. If anyone has a nice item that they would like to donate for a door prize, that’s how we get our door prizes,” Kuchler said.
Musicians are invited to join in with a Christmas song or two.
Email yarddogcharlie@gmail.com.
For those who qualify, and need temporary assistance with food, the Pine Island Pantry can supply several days worth of meals.
The pantry is located at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medial Catholic Church
12175 Stringfellow Road at 4200 Pine Island Road in Bokeelia.
For information about Kuchler, visit, www.yarddogcharlie.com