On Saturday, November 16, The Heights Foundation / The Heights Center hosted its third annual Celebration of Giving Thanks for the residents of Harlem Heights. The event took place at The Heights Center, bringing together 995 members of the community for a day of shared meals, games, entertainment, and fellowship.
The tradition began in 2022, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, when many families in Harlem Heights were left without functioning kitchens. The event has continued to be a cherished annual gathering, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude among neighbors.
As part of this year’s celebration, 223 families received a turkey and a Publix gift card, allowing them to prepare a Thanksgiving meal at home. The turkeys were generously sponsored by Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands.
“This tradition allows families to relax, enjoy a meal together, and connect with their neighbors,” said Kathryn Kelly, President and CEO of The Heights Foundation / The Heights Center. “We are so appreciative of our sponsors, donors, and volunteers who made this event possible.”
For more information about The Heights Foundation / The Heights Center, visit www.heightsfoundation.org or call (239) 482-7706.
About The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center
The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. Our mission is to support education and wellness, promote family and community development, and provide the benefits of enrichment and the arts. The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment.
Heights Early Learning serves more than 85 babies through 4 years old. The Heights Center serves 170 children in AfterSchool and 153 children in SummerCamp. The Harlem Heights Community Charter School serves 210 children from kindergarten through fifth grade.
Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 780 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 70% Hispanic, 20% African-American, and 8% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. As a result, families cannot easily access family support services in downtown Fort Myers and benefit greatly from programs within the neighborhood.
