FORT MYERS — Harry Chapin Food Bank, the largest hunger-relief organization in Southwest Florida, is pleased to announce it has received a $25,000 grant from Bank of America as part of the bank’s nearly $19 million donation to hunger relief organizations nationwide from its employee booster campaign. These funds will support the food bank’s overall food distribution operation to effectively and efficiently carry out its mission of providing food to people in need.

Harry Chapin Food Bank’s various food distribution programs reduce barriers that most families face as they struggle with household food insecurity, the inability to provide enough food for a healthy and active lifestyle for all household members. Household food insecurity is a major public health problem in the United States, which has grown with the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, an economic crisis caused by rising inflation, and the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ian on Southwest Florida.

“We are so incredibly grateful for Bank of America’s generous support,” said Ryan Uhler, Marketing and Communications Director, Harry Chapin Food Bank. “This gift will help provide families who are hungry in Southwest Florida with access to nutritious food.”

Bank of America has a longstanding commitment to address hunger relief and strengthen local communities. Through its second employee booster campaign, the bank donated $50 for each employee who registered a new coronavirus vaccine, coronavirus booster, or flu shot to further address hunger relief in local communities it serves.

For less than $1, Harry Chapin Food Bank can provide two meals to families who are hungry. Bank of America’s donation will provide 55,550 meals to individuals and families throughout Southwest Florida.

“Bank of America is addressing a critical need in our local community by battling food insecurity, while also supporting the health and safety of those who live here,” said Gerri Moll, president, Bank of America Southwest Florida. “Local food banks like Harry Chapin that receive these donations can build upon their ongoing efforts and better fight food insecurity brought on by the pandemic.”

As part of the bank’s broader commitment to responsible growth as it works to improve the financial lives of individuals, families, and entire communities, Bank of America also granted a total of $578,500 to 25 Southwest Florida nonprofits in 2022.