The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center will host its neighborhood-wide “Celebration of Giving Thanks” on Saturday, November 22 at The Heights Center for residents of Harlem Heights. Now in its fourth year, the community meal began in 2022 as families rebuilt kitchens and lives following Hurricane Ian. This year’s gathering also marks the 25th anniversary of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center.
More than 450 residents are expected to come together for a shared meal, games, entertainment, and fellowship. In addition, each family will receive a turkey and a Publix gift card so they can prepare their own Thanksgiving meal at home.
“We’re excited to continue this tradition, which allows families to relax, enjoy a meal together, and connect with their neighbors,” said Kathryn Kelly, President & CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center.
Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands has generously sponsored a portion of the turkeys for this year’s event. The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center is grateful to the bank and to all community partners, donors, and volunteers who make this celebration possible.
How the Community Can Help:
· The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center is seeking financial support to provide turkeys and gift cards for 300+ families—representing more than 1,000 individuals. Give online: heightsfoundation.org/donate
· Organizational support (businesses, community groups, churches): Contact Melissa Barlow at (239) 482-7706 or [email protected]
· Volunteer: Contact Olivia Clifton at (239) 482-7706 x4008 or [email protected]
About the Heights Foundation and 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.
