News Briefs

Bonita Springs YMCA Community Impact Campaign gains momentum

The Bonita Springs YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Southwest Florida, announced the success of its recent 24-hour Giving Challenge, which was held in April. “Thanks to the community’s incredible support and a generous matching donation, the YMCA raised an impressive $6,525 to support its vital programs and initiatives,” stated Angel Cerritos, district executive director of the Bonita Springs YMCA.

The 24-hour Giving Challenge served as a testament to the generosity and commitment of the Bonita Springs community to making a positive impact on the lives of local youth and families. The funds raised during this event will be crucial in furthering the YMCA’s mission to provide academic support, food security, and a safe space for children and families facing financial hardship.

The Community Impact Campaign will continue through the end of May to make an even more significant impact in the local community. Every donation received will directly support the YMCA’s scholarship program, ensuring that children and families in need have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Lee County homeowner Eddie Mae is the recipient of collaborative efforts of Habitat for Humanity and State Farm that aided with extensive repairs, including the restoration of her roof, soffit and attic. COURTESY PHOTO

To contribute to the Bonita Springs YMCA Community Impact Campaign, visit www.ymcaswfl.org/give or call 239-333-1669.

State Farm supports Habitat for Humanity Hurricane Recovery Home Repair Program

Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties has received a $20,000 grant from State Farm to support its Hurricane Recovery Home Repair Program to assist low-income families affected by hurricane damage in Lee County.

Eddie Mae, a local homeowner, experienced firsthand the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian on her home. The storm severely damaged her house’s interior and exterior, including the roof and soffit. Fortunately, through the collaborative efforts of Habitat for Humanity and State Farm, Eddie Mae received vital support. Seeking assistance from Habitat, her home underwent extensive repairs, including restoring her roof, soffit and attic.

Habitat’s Hurricane Recovery Home Repair Program provides much-needed assistance to homeowners needing urgent repairs, including roof repair or replacement, siding, drywall, painting, windows, doors and more. The grant from State Farm will support the program’s efforts to assist homeowners still struggling to repair damage caused by Hurricane Ian in September 2022.

Since 2022, Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties has received $165,000 in grants from State Farm to support vital hurricane recovery home repairs in Lee County. In addition, State Farm has contributed over $1 million to support disaster relief in the communities most affected by Hurricane Ian. Habitat for Humanity of Collier County has also received over $145,000 since 2022.

Domestic Animal Services to host Foster event for rescue partners

Lee County Domestic Animal Services holds the first Foster Fest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at 5600 Banner Drive. Anyone who attends can interact with area rescues to see what fostering opportunities are available.

This is the perfect opportunity to help not only one of Animal Services’ rescue partners but also Animal Services. Every foster means a chance to assist another homeless pet in need.

The Gulf Coast Humane Society, Cape Coral Animal Shelter, Big Hearts for Big Dogs Rescue, R.A.I.N. Rescue, SWFL German Shepherd Rescue, and the Humane

Society of Naples will be in attendance, and visitors will be able to sign up to foster for Animal Services or other listed organizations.

For more information, email fostering@leegov.com or visit www.LeeLost- Pets.com .

Lee County Tax Collector expands online services

The Lee County Tax Collector has launched the online sale of specialty license plates to save customers time and provide added convenience.

With causes ranging from education to environment, sports to health, Florida offers more than 100 specialty plates for various organizations. The money raised from sales goes directly to the organization. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, millions of dollars have been raised since its inception.

With the launch of county-taxes.net/fl-lee/plates , the platform allows customers to view the designs and select their preferred option, such as paying by credit card, debit card, or e-check. Once the order is placed, the plate is mailed directly to them. Customers can even purchase them as gifts for others.

Including the purchase of specialty plates, customers can also renew their vehicle registration, pay their property taxes, apply for and renew a business tax receipt, buy specialty plate vouchers, and, in some cases, renew their driver’s license online through LeeTC.com/pay-online. Customers can also run reports for Real Estate and Business Tax. ¦

The post News Briefs first appeared on Bonita Springs Florida Weekly .