Heart to Heart: Hearts Around the Table

Karen Coney Coplin

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season. It has a way of bringing us back to what matters: traditions new and old, the gathering of family and friends, and, of course, a festive table filled with food. For some, preparation of a favorite recipe may be a poignant reminder of a loved one who passed.

In the spirit of the season, it’s worth remembering that having enough food on the table isn’t something everyone in our community can take for granted.

These are challenging times for many. The rising cost of everyday necessities, such as food and gas for starters, puts financial pressure at the forefront. And while the holidays tend to bring these needs into sharper focus, food insecurity and hardship don’t take a holiday.

Perhaps this is where gratitude takes on a little more meaning. It doesn’t require us to overlook the challenges around us or to put on rose-colored glasses. Rather, we are invited to recognizewhat we have in this moment and consider how we might share a little of it with someone else.

Over the years, I’ve highlighted the efforts of many local organizations and the caring people behind them, to bring these groups to the attention of our readers. Their work reminds me that lifting others up doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s a meal, a volunteer afternoon, a financial contribution, or simply knowing where someone can turn when life becomes overwhelming.

Sometimes, the first step is calling for assistance.

It’s a reminder that caring for our community takes many forms.

Sometimes it’s providing a meal; sometimes it’s helping a family find stability; and sometimes it’s making sure a child has a safe place to begin healing.

As we gather around our own tables this Thanksgiving, perhaps we can make a little room in our thoughts for those whose circumstances are different from ours.

We don’t have to solve every problem or support every cause. We can start with one organization, one volunteer opportunity or one small act of kindness.

Gratitude isn’t simply about appreciating what we have. It’s also about recognizing that what we have can help others as well. Perhaps that’s one of the most meaningful ways to give thanks.

Email Karen at Napleskcc@gmail.com to share suggestions for future columns. Please consider giving her a follow @Naplesbythenumbers on Instagram for more slices of Life in Naples

The Collier Resource Center (239.434.2030) has long been an important resource for individuals and families navigating difficult circumstances. Beyond helping connect people with food, the organization serves as a bridge to other essential services, including housing, health care and assistance with everyday needs. When someone is unsure where to begin, having a knowledgeable
resource to help navigate the options can make all the difference.

There is also something special about people coming together to make a difference. Meals of Hope (239.596.8990) is a wonderful example of hands-on generosity. Its meal-packing events bring volunteers in service around a shared purpose, while its other hunger-relief initiatives help get food into the hands of those who need it. It’s a reminder that giving doesn’t always have to be
complicated. Sometimes it starts with showing up, rolling up your sleeves and doing something tangible.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida (239.330.7007) plays another critical role in addressing hunger throughout our region. Behind every food distribution is an extensive network of donors, volunteers and community partners working to make sure food reaches families, children and individuals facing food insecurity. The work of this organization reminds us that addressing hunger requires more than a single meal or a seasonal food drive; it takes a sustained community effort.

And, sometimes the challenges facing our neighbors extend well beyond their grocery bill. The Hunger & Homeless Coalition of Collier County (239.263.9363) works with community partners to address homelessness, housing instability and related needs. Food insecurity and housing insecurity are almost always connected, and helping someone move toward greater stability can required addressing several challenges at once.

Not every kind of nourishment comes from a kitchen. The Empowerment Farm (239.330.2777) offers another perspective on what it means to strengthen a community. Through its connection to animals, agriculture, and hands-on learning, the organization creates opportunities for people of different ages and abilities to experience connection in nature. Its work also reminds us of the importance of understanding where our food comes from and the value of bringing people (and animals) together on the land.

A privilege of writing this column is discovering that the story doesn’t necessarily end when the article does. The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County (239.263.8383) is another organization I’ve introduced to readers in the past. Celebrating its 40th year in 2026, the Center continues its important work helping children and families affected by trauma and abuse through advocacy, therapy and coordinated services.