The Fort Myers Economic Development Advisory Board meeting on January 10, 2025, featured a significant presentation from Scott Bus of the Midwest Food Bank, highlighting the organization's critical role in addressing food insecurity in the region. The meeting underscored the growing demand for food assistance, with Bus reporting that the Midwest Food Bank distributed $60 million worth of food in Lee County in 2024, a substantial increase from $44 million in 2023.

Bus emphasized the importance of the food bank's mission, which aims to alleviate hunger and malnutrition without discrimination. He noted that food insecurity affects one in nine households across the United States, impacting various demographics, including single parents and grandparents caring for grandchildren. The food bank operates with a lean staff of just six employees, relying heavily on a volunteer force of approximately 2,000 individuals to manage operations and distribution.

A key point of discussion was the food bank's need for additional warehouse space. Currently located in Billy Creek Plaza, the organization is bursting at the seams, with Bus indicating that they often have to unload food outside due to limited storage capacity. The board members acknowledged that the increasing demand for food assistance necessitates a larger facility to better serve the community.

Bus also highlighted the food bank's partnerships with major corporations like Kellogg's, Nestle, and Amazon, which provide a significant portion of the food distributed. He explained that the organization operates on a model where every dollar donated translates into $34 worth of food delivered to those in need, showcasing the efficiency of their operations.

The meeting concluded with a call for community support to raise awareness about the Midwest Food Bank's services and to encourage donations and volunteerism. As the organization continues to expand its reach and impact, the board recognized the importance of addressing the challenges posed by food insecurity in Lee County and the surrounding areas.