22nd Annual Sam Galloway, Jr. & Friends Soup Kitchen Benefit raises over $1 million

FORT MYERS, Fla. - March 17, 2025 - PRLog -- An incredible night of philanthropy, fellowship, and fantastic food, the 22^nd Annual Sam Galloway Jr. & Friends Soup Kitchen Benefit raised over $1 million to support Community Cooperative's mission of ending hunger and homelessness in Southwest Florida through their many programs including, Meals on Wheels, Sam's Community Café & Kitchen, Mobile Food Pantries, and Social Services & Educational Resource Centers.

More than 700 supporters and donors gathered in the service garages of Sam Galloway Ford on March 6 for a heartfelt and impactful evening, raising funds and enjoying a delicious meal thanks to the generosity of over 20 local restaurants that donated food and services. The event honored one of the organization's founders, Sam Galloway, Jr., while celebrating the life-changing programs and services that Community Cooperative provides to the Southwest Florida community year-round. Bringing together dedicated community members, new supporters, and longtime advocates, the event highlighted a shared commitment to making a difference. Thanks to the generosity of supporters Community Cooperative will continue its vital mission of providing essential resources to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and economic hardships.

"One in six residents are in need of food assistance in Southwest Florida," said Stefanie Ink Edwards, CEO of Community Cooperative. "It's why events like the Soup Kitchen Benefit are so important. Last year, 270,000 meals were cooked and served in Sam's Community Café & Kitchen and 117,000 meals were delivered through Meals on Wheels. None of this would be possible without the support and dedication of so many individuals and organizations in our community."

The service garages were transformed for the event in a matter of hours, thanks to the help of 237 dedicated volunteers. Afterward, volunteers returned the space to normal, so work could begin in the morning.

Despite the funds raised at the event, Community Cooperative continues to need volunteers and donations to meet the needs of the community. For information on how to support or volunteer, visit CommunityCooperative.com (https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u00...).