Guest Commentary | Mad about hunger: Community Cooperative’s fight against food insecurity in Southwest Florida
In Southwest Florida, one in six children and one in eight adults face food insecurity. No one should have to wonder where their next meal will come from — yet in our community, children go to bed hungry, and adults struggle with the physical, mental and economic challenges that come with not having enough food.
As a community, I believe we must do better for our neighbors. At Community Cooperative, we’re asking you to join us – let’s get mad about hunger.
For over 40 years, Community Cooperative has stepped up to fill critical gaps as a much-needed resource in our community. What began in 1984 with a humble mission to provide peanut butter and jelly sandwiches has grown and transformed to meet the evolving needs of our neighbors. In 2024 alone, we helped more than 46,000 people across our programs, distributed over two million pounds of food and delivered 117,000 freshly prepared meals to homebound individuals. Yet, even with these efforts, food insecurity remains a constant challenge as living and food costs continue to rise. We are more than just a soup kitchen, we provide a wide range of services and programs designed to address hunger in all its forms and adapt to this ever-changing crisis.
Every day, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers at Sam’s Community Cafe & Kitchen begin work at 4:30 a.m. to prepare more than 1,500 meals. These efforts include delivering Meals on Wheels to homebound clients, serving breakfast and lunch to partner schools and providing a hot midday meal to anyone in need. Our mobile food pantries bring emergency groceries to the farthest corners of the region, and our Choice Community Market allows clients to select the foods that best meet their family’s needs-restoring dignity and choice.
Beyond providing food, our Social & Education Resources Center offers life-changing services to support neighbors during difficult times. None of this is possible without the generosity and compassion of people like you in Southwest Florida who donate, volunteer and advocate for lasting change.
A way to support us is by attending our signature fall fundraiser, Becoming Cosmopolitan: Mad About Hunger. Returning for its 19th year on Sept. 25, this special event plays a vital role in supporting our mission to end hunger and homelessness. Guests will tumble down the rabbit hole for an unforgettable evening filled with whimsical cocktails, a topsy-turvy tea party, a lively silent auction, and much more — all in support of our critical mission.
Please join us and our community as we work together to build a stronger, healthier Southwest Florida. Together, we can create a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
VIP tickets are available for $250 and general admission for $150. Become a sponsor or purchase tickets for the Becoming Cosmopolitan: Mad About Hunger event, email Events@CommunityCooperative.com or call 239-332-7687 ext. 101.
Stefanie Ink Edwards is the CEO of Community Cooperative, leading innovative programs that fight hunger and homelessness across Southwest Florida. She is a passionate advocate for community collaboration, believing that lasting change happens when residents, businesses and nonprofits work together. Please visit CommunityCooperative.com.