Despite experiencing physical pain and discomfort, our remarkable volunteer, Courtney, managed the pastry table, bringing joy to numerous individuals this past Saturday.
Meanwhile, we take a peek at The Lighthouse Kitchen: A Warm Meal, A Warmer Heart.
In the quiet town of Fort Myers, Florida, a small but mighty soup kitchen called The Lighthouse Kitchen has been a beacon of hope for those in need. Founded in 2015 by former restaurant owner James “Jim” Patterson, the kitchen started as a way to give back after Jim overcame a period of homelessness himself.
Jim had once owned a thriving seafood restaurant, but a series of misfortunes—including a hurricane, rising rents, and a health crisis—left him struggling. During his hardest times, a local church’s food pantry helped him get back on his feet. Once he rebuilt his life, he made it his mission to ensure that others facing hardship wouldn’t have to struggle alone.
At first, Jim cooked meals in a borrowed church kitchen, serving 20 to 30 people a day. But as word spread, The Lighthouse Kitchen grew. Volunteers, local businesses, and even former patrons pitched in, turning it into a full-scale soup kitchen serving over 300 hot meals daily.
One of the most moving moments in the kitchen’s history came after Hurricane Ian devastated Fort Myers in 2022. With thousands left without homes, electricity, or food, Jim and his team sprang into action. With the help of local fishermen, they cooked and distributed fresh seafood stew, rice, and vegetables to families in need. Despite the chaos and destruction around them, The Lighthouse Kitchen became a refuge—where people could find not just food, but comfort and community.