We serve lunch to anyone who visits our location on Monday thru Friday at 10:30 A.M. No one is refused.

Our clients are what society has termed “less fortunate.” They are in almost all cases “in transition” in their lives. They could be a wife and children of a migrant Hispanic laborer. Maybe the client is a professional who has suddenly lost his or her employment and or family – or simply experiencing extreme financial difficulties. We are not interested in “why” they have come to us – only that we demonstrate a “caring, sharing and serving” response to their needs. As their lives evolve into a better situation we welcome them back to visit and share their experiences.

We serve from 80 to 120 clients each day, although it is not uncommon that more than 120 clients partake of our hot lunches on any given day. In 2009 our total number of meals served was 30,357.

In addition, the Café of Life may provide supplemental groceries, clothing, blankets, miscellaneous personal goods, and at times furniture and appliances to clients. We often supply transportation to medical appointments and job interviews. When not provided by other agencies, clients may receive financial consideration for emergency utility bills, rent, and medical prescriptions. The Salvation Army, a partner agency, has a full-time case worker and nurse on site every day, and also provides health care and referral service to our clients every Tuesday.

"The Christian Community of Bonita Springs is so grateful for the ministry of Café of Life to the neediest individuals in our city. This is both practical and spiritual work, a profound expression of faith and compassion. As Jesus said, 'Whatever you do for the least of my brothers, you do unto me' "

Dr. Doug Pratt,
Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs