Our Programs
Two Food Pantries
St. Matthew's House is more than a homeless shelter. We are also committed to helping those who have a home, but are living paycheck to paycheck, often at or below poverty level. To this end, we have two Food Pantries stocked with nonperishable grocery items generously donated by area businesses, churches, supermarkets and individuals. One is located at St. Matthew's House, and the other opened at our Bonita Springs Thrift Store in May 2009. Those in need of groceries can come to either location during Direct Assistance times and take home a bag full of the basics, from canned goods to pasta, peanut butter, condiments, and more. Each bag is filled to accommodate a family of four for two days. In all, it adds up to about $30 worth of groceries. Over 4,000 bags of groceries were given out in 2008, and the need continues to grow. We will give out an estimated 5,000 bags of groceries in 2009.
Direct Assistance
We also help you apply for assistance from the state, utilizing the St. Matthew's House free ACCESS Florida computer terminal in our lobby. The Automated Community Connection to Economic Self-Sufficiency (Access Florida) website is where you can apply for:
- Food stamps
- Temporary cash assistance
- Medicaid
Here, you will be able to check the status of a claim already filed, complete an unfinished application, and report any changes in your status. For more information, visit Access Florida. Close to 40 people per month utilize this service, adding up to over 400 people per year. St. Matthew's House is an equal opportunity provider.
Direct Assistance Times:
St. Matthew's House:
- Mon & Wed. 1-3 pm
Tues & Thurs. 3-6 pm
Friday 1-4 pm
Bonita Springs Thrift Store: direct phone - 239-495-0159
- Thursday 10am-2pm