County campaign collects 9,321 pounds of donated food
Donated not Wasted, Lee County’s annual food rescue campaign, successfully diverted 9,321 pounds of food from potential disposal — exceeding 2019 collection total of 2,263 pounds by 312 percent.
“We are so grateful for this overwhelming show of support from our community and partners,” Meg Madzar, food drive coordinator for the Harry Chapin Food Bank, said “Together, we will provide another 7,767 meals for hungry families.”
The food bank distributes nearly 1 million pounds of food a week and feeds thousands of people a month — many of whom never needed help before the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign, designed to reduce food waste in the county, encouraged seasonal residents and visitors to donate unopened pantry items before returning north. Recreation centers and libraries provided 21 convenient drop-off locations and residents responded with enthusiasm.
Partners in the campaign included: Harry Chapin Food Bank; Lee County Government, including Lee County Solid Waste, Lee County Parks & Recreation and the Lee County Library System; Sanibel Public Library and Town of Fort Myers Beach library; Waste Pro; and FOX4.