Dear Colony Project Supporter,
COVID-19 and its consequences has meant unprecedented economic, health and social challenges for all of us. But for the most vulnerable residents in Bonita Springs and Estero, the pandemic has devastated lives. As a result of widespread job losses, along with closed schools and daycare centers, many of our neighbors have experienced serious food shortages, some for the first time in their lives.
In addition to The Bridge Fund’s special pandemic response, The Colony Project (“TCP”) was able to bring critical assistance to the community. Thanks to your generosity, we have helped feed thousands of those who most needed household groceries, nutritious kids’ extras, or home-delivered meals. We’re proud to share these efforts with you.
Mobile Food Pantries.
A Collier County-based organization,
Meals of Hope,
opened a weekly food pantry at Bonita Springs Elementary School earlier this year, serving about 150 families. The pantry converted to a mobile drive-through format in March for the safety of both clients and volunteers. Soon over 350 families were lining up hours before opening. TCP support helped the pantry supply the additional families with groceries for four weeks.
Weekend Food for Children.
TCP funds
Blessings in a Backpack
weekend food packs for approximately 280 local children during the school year. These students receive breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday when school is in session, and the
Blessings
packs provide nutritious, kid-friendly food for the weekend. While the schools transitioned to “grab and go” weekday meals after closing due to the pandemic, locations were limited. To help more children access food, your donations contributed to an effort to provide
Blessings
packets to 700 additional children through Bonita Springs Elementary and Pueblo Bonito Boys and Girls Club.
Meals for Seniors.
Meals on Wheels
in Bonita Springs and Estero, previously a private initiative, is now operated by a 501(c)(3) Lee County agency. Additional Colony Project funding has allowed
Meals on Wheels
to add new service routes in our area, and approximately 1,100 hot meals for local shut-in seniors. Just as important, delivery volunteers provide a smile and human contact for those who might otherwise be totally isolated. We look forward to exploring a future relationship with this program.
Thank you for feeding so many of our neighbors at this difficult time. Please know that we are very grateful that your donations to The Colony Project were there to help where and when needed the most. We wish you a safe and healthy summer.
The Bridge Fund
