Last July, a big announcement marked a turning point for this community: the merger of the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition and St. Vincent de Paul CARES into what is now the Charlotte CARE Center. Behind that decision was a single, urgent question: How can more be done — and done better — for neighbors in crisis?
Twelve Months Later, the answers can be found in the lives forever changed.
James, a veteran who once slept in his car, now has a safe, stable home — and volunteers in the pantry to “give back what was given to me.” And Gloria, a grandmother unexpectedly raising her three young grandchildren, arrived unsure how she’d feed them dinner that night. She left the shelter not only with a home, but with resources, support, and reassurance that she wasn’t alone.
I’ve never seen a team more committed to showing up for people. This isn’t just a job. This is our mission.”
– Jenna Alvarez, Charlotte CARE Center Director
Because of generous community members like you, that mission has taken root and flourished.
In the Past Year:
- More than 17,000 pantry boxes were distributed — an 18% increase from the year before.
- More than 100 hot meals were served each day of the year to individuals and families experiencing hunger – 39,273 in total.
- More than 6,000 people across Charlotte County gained access to nourishing food, shelter, housing, job support, and compassionate care.
- More than 65% of emergency shelter guests exited into permanent, stable housing – a success rate that significantly outpaces the national average of 34%.
Yes, Michael!
I want to help bring hope, housing, and healing to my neighbors
in Charlotte County.
Every one of these moments began with a simple, powerful choice: someone cared enough to take action.
That same spirit is still needed today. Neighbors continue to face life-altering challenges — job loss, medical emergencies, rent hikes, and more. Each new face that walks through the door is looking not just for help, but for hope.
Your Support Makes that Possible.
As the Charlotte CARE Center begins a second year of service, would you consider making a gift to keep that hope alive? Every dollar strengthens the safety net — from emergency shelter and food assistance to housing navigation and case management — and moves Charlotte County closer to a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and one-time.
Thank you for believing in a better future for every person in need — and for making it real, one act of kindness at a time.
With deep gratitude,
Michael Raposa
CEO, SVdP CARES
Makes a Difference in Someone’s Life
$25 fills a pantry box.
$50 helps someone secure identification.
$100 supports housing focused case management for someone starting over.
P.S. Every gift – no matter the size – makes a tangible difference in someone’s life. $25 can fill a pantry box. $50 can help someone secure identification. $100 can support housing focused case management for someone starting over – from homelessness to a new home.
P.P.S. The first year laid the foundation — now comes the transformation. Continued support from caring people like you will shape what happens next for Charlotte County.