Interfaith Charities of South Lee County Raises $245,000 at Night of Hope Gala
Interfaith Charities of South Lee County Raises $245,000 at A Night of Hope Gala Over 250 Guests in Attendance
Ft. Myers, Fla. (April 2, 2025) – Interfaith Charities of South Lee County (ICSL) successfully hosted its annual gala, A Night of Hope, raising an impressive $245,000 to support its outreach programs and food pantry.
More than 250 donors, volunteers, and community partners gathered at The Forest Country Club for an unforgettable evening featuring a cocktail reception, dinner, a lively auction, and dancing.
Funds from the gala will benefit operations at the ICSL Food Pantry and the ICSL Outreach Center. “This was an incredible evening filled with generosity and community spirit,” said Lisa Wilkes, President of the Board of Directors. “With the enthusiasm of our MC, Stacey Deffenbaugh, and auctioneer, Rick Gallo, the evening remained lively and engaging from start to finish. Planning is already underway for next year’s gala.”
The new Executive Director, Lisa Swanson, was introduced during the gala. Swanson was recently promoted from her role as Operations and Volunteer Manager at ICSL’s Food Pantry. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to serve in this role and take ICSL to the next level,” Swanson stated.
About Interfaith Charities of South Lee
Interfaith Charities of South Lee (ICSL) is a 32-year-old community-driven nonprofit dedicated to feeding the hungry and providing hope and help to those in need throughout South Fort Myers, Estero, and San Carlos Park. ICSL relies solely on donations from local businesses, churches, community groups, and individuals to sustain its mission.
The Food Pantry, located at 17592 Rockefeller Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33967, operates Tuesday through Saturday and offers clients access to healthy food and shelf-stable items.
The Outreach Center at 18011 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 28, Fort Myers, FL 33908, provides vital resources for the broader community. This community hub offers essential services such as free income tax assistance (VITA), SNAP and Medicaid registration, budgeting and English classes, and a free summer lunch program for children.
Community members looking to support ICSL’s mission can donate, volunteer, or learn more by calling 239-267-3510 or visiting www.icslee.org