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Lee County JROTC Cadets rally to fight hunger, raise more than 15,000 pounds of food

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Through a coordinated food drive spanning 16 schools, JROTC students collected an impressive 15,014 pounds of food and raised $13,777 in financial contributions to benefit Community Cooperative. PROVIDED
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Through a coordinated food drive spanning 16 schools, JROTC students collected an impressive 15,014 pounds of food and raised $13,777 in financial contributions to benefit Community Cooperative. PROVIDED
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Through a coordinated food drive spanning 16 schools, JROTC students collected an impressive 15,014 pounds of food and raised $13,777 in financial contributions to benefit Community Cooperative. PROVIDED

Cadets across the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs within the School District of Lee County came together to make a powerful impact in the fight against hunger in Southwest Florida.

Through a coordinated food drive spanning 16 schools, JROTC students collected an impressive 15,014 pounds of food and raised $13,777 in financial contributions to benefit Community Cooperative.

“This remarkable effort highlights not only the generosity of these students, but also their dedication to service, teamwork, and civic responsibility,” officials said.

“For over a decade, Lee County JROTC has teamed up with the Community Cooperative in our spring food drive,” said Rodney “Scott” Robinson COL (Ret), Director of Army Instruction for School District of Lee County. “This is a tribute to our communities, our great programs, and the outstanding efforts of our Lee County JROTC Cadets.” 

Driven by a shared mission to give back, cadets organized collection efforts on their campuses, rallied peers and faculty, and inspired their communities to contribute. Their work ensures that thousands of local families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship will have access to nutritious meals when they need them most.

“This initiative truly reflects the heart of our young leaders,” said Stefanie Ink, CEO at Community Cooperative. “The commitment shown by the JROTC cadets across Lee County is nothing short of inspiring. They are not only learning the values of leadership and discipline, but also the importance of compassion and service to others.”

Every pound of food and every dollar raised will directly support Community Cooperative’s mission to end hunger and homelessness in Southwest Florida. Financial donations allow the organization to stretch resources further, providing fresh food and meeting urgent needs throughout the year.

The success of this drive underscores the powerful role students play in creating meaningful change. By stepping up and taking immediate action, these cadets have proven that leadership extends far beyond the classroom and that even small acts, when multiplied, can make a lasting difference.

For information on how to support Community Cooperative or get involved in future initiatives, visit CommunityCooperative.com or contact (239) 332-7687.

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