Cape Coral Business Owner Opens 24/7 Food Pantry To Help Feed Neighbors
Behind Lee County Plumbing in Cape Coral, Florida, a free food pantry has been helping people around the clock for five years. Owner Dionne Lopez got it started after seeing her neighbors lose their jobs and have trouble putting food on the table. For Lopez, this hits home — she remembers what it was like to go hungry herself. She's determined to help others avoid the same struggles.
Hidden just off the main road, this simple wooden cabinet is stocked with everyday food items. Caring neighbors keep filling the shelves whenever they start getting empty, keeping the giving going day after day.
After some folks took more than they should have, they had to make some changes. They've added cameras to keep an eye on things. Now, staff members break down bulk items into smaller amounts that help more people. A local helper named Dave Sterchi takes time to split up the food into fair shares. His efforts make sure everyone can get something to eat.
People show their thanks every day. While the pantry runs on the honor system, the staff remind visitors to be thoughtful and only take what they really need. This little bit of kindness has caught on. Other neighborhoods have followed their lead, starting their own free pantries to help feed people.
No forms to fill out. No questions asked. No looking down on anyone. Just food for hungry folks — a straightforward way to help that brings people together and gives them hope.
