In light of the recent suspension of SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice (CCDOV) is working proactively to support families facing increased food insecurity.
To help meet this anticipated, urgent, and increased need, CCDOV is running its “Share the Harvest” emergency food drive. This initiative ensures that neighborhood food pantries can help families in need have access to nutritious food throughout November and the Thanksgiving holiday. Community members are encouraged to contribute monetary or non-perishable food donations at Catholic Charities pantry and distribution sites throughout the Diocese. (Please see below for a list of donation drop-off locations.)
“Our food pantries are preparing for higher demand, and we are committed to ensuring that no family goes hungry,” said Christopher Root, Chief Executive Officer of CCDOV. “We are working closely with our partners to make sure our pantries have the resources and staffing needed to respond to this urgent and increased need.”
Each month, CCDOV serves more than 3,660 individuals and families through its six food pantry sites across the region and 2,124 individuals at its Soup Kitchen in Immokalee. CCDOV is coordinating with Catholic Charities USA and local partners to raise awareness about the anticipated surge in demand at food pantries across the region.
Food donations are being accepted at:
- Sarasota Regional Office: 5055 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota;
- Bonita Springs Pantry: 28360 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs;
- Arcadia Regional Office: 1208 E. Oak St., Arcadia;
- Fort Myers, Elizabeth Kay Galeana Center: 4235 Michigan Link Ave., Fort Myers;
- Guadalupe Social Services: 211 S 9th Street, Immokalee;
- Judy Sullivan Center: 3174 Tamiami Trail, Naples.
If you would like to make a financial donation please visit ccdov.org. If you have any questions, please call 941-249-9400.
If you need assistance
Please call the Catholic Charities offices between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 pm., Monday to Friday, in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Hardee and Highlands Counties at 941-355-4680; for Charlotte, Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties, at 239-390-2928; and for Collier County, at 239-793-0059. Or visit Catholic Charities online ccdov.org and click on the “Find Help” button. For additional resources, you can also visit the Diocese of Venice website at https://dioceseofvenice.org/need-help/.
