Community Supports Meals of Hope at CJ’s

Happiness and hope were in the air at CJ’s on the Bay August 25 as our community turned out in large numbers to support Meals of Hope Marco Island (MOHMI). It was a wonderfully supportive showing of neighbors and friends all joined together to raise funds for this most worthy cause – to eliminate hunger in Collier County. Meals of Hope is a joint effort of Sunrise Rotary, Noontime Rotary, and the Kiwanis Club of Marco Island. In addition to Rotarians and Kiwanians, the August Happy Hour for Hope boasted attendance from the Marco Island Woman’s Club, teachers from MIA, Marco Island City Council, local business leaders, and many other wonderful citizens of this amazing community.  

Delicious appetizers, generously provided by CJ’s, along with happy hour drink prices, gave us cause to toast the noble mission of MOHMI. The acoustic sounds of local musician Lance Shearer enhanced the positive vibe and ambience. We even had the opportunity to celebrate the birthday of Joel Gewirtz, the original founder of the Kiwanis Club of Marco Island.  

A 50-50 drawing doubled the fun and funds! The winner was David Fernandes, who generously donated his winnings right back to the cause. MOHMI is extremely grateful to David and all the attendees for making this fundraiser a tremendous success!  

Happy Hours for Hope are crucial to the success of Meals of Hope! These monthly events raise funds to purchase raw food materials for the upcoming packaging event Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Marco Island Charter Middle School. This year, MOHMI needs to raise $60,000 to pack 200,000 meals. Food packages are distributed throughout Collier County by its accredited food bank partners free of charge to recipients in need. MOHMI is supported by donations and by Friends of Hope, a group of generous individuals and businesses who have made substantial financial contributions to the cause. The 2025 Friends of Hope are Erik Condee-Condee Electric and Cooling, Tom Mann-All Event Party Rental, Donna Dubey, Deb Henry, Barbara Kaumann, John McGonigle, Tom Menaker, William G. Morris, Dennis and Joan Pidherny, Susan Purvis, Jim and Allyson Richards, Arne and Jill Sandberg, Alan and Linda Sandlin, Pam Shniper, Gwyn Steiner, Robert and Catherine Thomas, and Bonita Schwan.  

The public is always invited to these good times for a good cause, so please stay tuned for further information about upcoming Happy Hours for Hope. Hope to see you there!  

To learn more about Meals of Hope Marco Island, please visit www.mohmi.org or contact marcomealsofhope@gmail.com.