The Harry Chapin Food Bank has made significant strides in tackling hunger in Southwest Florida. Their recent 2024 Impact Report reveals a notable rise in food distribution, with a 10.6% increase in the amount of food provided compared to 2023. In total, the food bank distributed 39.5 million pounds, equating to about 3 million additional meals for those in need across the region.
Working alongside 175 partner agencies, HCFB distributes meals in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties. Lee County experienced a remarkable 16% surge in food distribution, rising from 15.9 million to 18.4 million pounds. Hendry County saw the biggest boost at 25%, while Glades and Collier counties grew by 5%. Charlotte’s increase was 2%.
“This data highlights that hunger remains a pressing issue in Southwest Florida,” said Richard LeBer, the president and CEO of the food bank. He emphasized that many working families find it tough to make ends meet in an expensive area, pointing to rising inflation in housing, healthcare, and transportation as contributing factors.
LeBer mentioned that Lee County has numerous communities where many residents are employed in service jobs, leading to higher food insecurity. He noted that areas like Cape Coral and Lehigh are particularly affected, and the food bank is focused on ensuring that food reaches these communities effectively.
Two specific programs for children saw impressive growth in 2024. Harry’s Helpings, which provides supplemental food kits through schools and community events, distributed 261,000 pounds of food, marking a 31.2% increase from the previous year. The In-School Pantry Program, which supplies families with shelf-stable foods via school pantries, delivered 741,000 pounds—an increase of 28.2%.
“These programs are vital,” LeBer stated. “We’re dedicated to supporting young families and ensuring children have enough food. A lack of nutrition can impact their school performance and long-term development.”
Key highlights from the 2024 Community Impact Report include:
- 5,900 volunteers contributed 79,000 hours of service, valued at $2.5 million.
- HCFB offered 511 health and nutrition education courses.
- 96% of funds supported programs and services; only 4% went to administrative costs.
- 10.5 million pounds of the distributed food was fresh produce.
Despite the challenges, LeBer believes hunger can be managed through consistent food availability. “The battle against hunger is ongoing,” he said. “While we may not eliminate food insecurity entirely, our goal is to keep food accessible for those who need it.”
LeBer pointed out that economic factors, including rising living costs, are driving food insecurity in the region. “Inflation affects everyone, especially when rents and healthcare costs continue to climb,” he said.
HCFB collaborates with over 175 partners across five counties, utilizing their network to distribute food at local levels. “We couldn’t operate so many distribution points without the support of these organizations,” he added. “Most of our food goes out through community partners who are directly connected to those in need.”
The food bank primarily sources its food from local grocery stores and farms, picking up donations daily. As for 2025, LeBer is committed to serving the community no matter the economic trends. “It all hinges on how working families fare financially,” he said. “Our focus remains on providing food access during tough times.”
LeBer expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support. “We are thankful for the generosity from Southwest Florida, which makes our mission possible.” The Harry Chapin Food Bank continues to be a vital resource, helping 250,000 people each month through its feeding network. For more details, visit HarryChapinFoodBank.org.