FORT MYERS, Fla. — This week, the Salvation Army has launched a new pilot program that delivers relief to food-insecure neighborhoods in Southwest Florida.
Wednesday, volunteers loaded bags of food onto a disaster relief vehicle at the Fort Myers pantry for their first day of services.
Due to the economic impacts of the coronavirus, they're now seeing their highest numbers at food pantries across Southwest Florida.
Earlier this week, the Salvation Army distributed over 6,500 pounds of food to families in just one day.
With the latest orders of social distancing extended, they're now hoping to mobilize their pantry in an effort to meet more needs in the community.
They say if this new mobile program goes well, they hope to cover two locations every week.
“This is going to be extended through the whole month of April, so we are feeling that the pressure will continue to grow for food insecurity. At the Salvation Army, we’re trying to just meet that need in very creative ways," said Maj. Carlyle Gargis at the Salvation Army's food pantry in Fort Myers.
He says they've been pleased to see an increase in local donations and volunteers.
The Salvation Army of Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties is still seeking help to continue providing their relief services.
For more information on their emergency relief operations or how to help, click here.
