Have a specific question?
Send it via e-mail to questions@cafeoflife.org, and we will respond promptly.

Some of the most frequently asked questions include:

Q: “In what ways can I be of help to the Café of Life?”
A: “There are many, many, many ways an individual can help us to help others. They include:

Cooks – we need dishes to serve about 120. Suggestions include a casserole, hot dogs, meatloaf, chicken pieces, etc. A side dish or salad is always welcome. Select one of your favorite recipes – our clients will love it. Or, feel free to contact us to borrow one of our recipes (already favorites of our clients!) We welcome and encourage our cooks to serve the meal that they have prepared!

Servers – set-up of tables; organize paper supplies from our mobile pantry; organize “take home” food donated from grocers; serve clients. Some servers bring milk, juice, boiled eggs, or other extras on days that they serve the clients.

Transportation of Groceries — Publix, Fresh Market, Sweetbay and other grocers donate baked goods, produce, and a variety of food products. We need people to pick up these items and deliver them to our site for distribution as “take home” items for many of our clients.

Committees – marketing/communications, real estate, fund raisers, etc. Let us know your talents – we can find a meaningful assignment for you!”

Q: “I would like to cook, but I can’t afford to buy the food I would prepare”.
A:“We will reimburse you for the food you purchase. Also, we have a food bank of donated items you may utilize.”

Q: “I would like to cook, but not the entire meal. How can I help?”
A: “We can use you on one of our existing teams where you can prepare only part of the meal.

Q: “I would like to donate a meal, but I am unable to cook. Is this possible?
A: “Absolutely! You can make a financial donation so another cook can prepare the meal. If you want to be more involved you can pick up fried chicken, potato salad, or pizza from one of our grocers. It doesn’t have to be a gourmet meal – our clients are hungry – all we ask is that cooks prepare food that is wholesome and tasty!”

Q: “What are your serving hours?”
A: “We serve Monday thru Friday from 10:30 A. M. until closing with set-up at 10:15 A. M.”

Q: “Who are your clients?”
A: “Many are less fortunate working Hispanics who have difficulty ‘making ends meet.’ Some are mothers who cannot work because of small children at home. Others are men who work for minimum wage, and therefore need nutritional assistance to save money for other household requirements.

Some are disabled veterans while some are temporarily homeless. Some are professionals in transition and are experiencing financial difficulties. In all honesty, our clients come from all ‘walks of life.’”

Q: “Do you work with other organizations?”
A: “Yes. The Salvation Army and Bonita Assistance are two of the better- known organizations that work with us.”

Q: “How do I get involved?”
A: “Contact us at info@cafeoflife.org or telephone (239) 495-9325. We look forward to you making Café of Life a part of your life!”