This year, the Cape Coral Community Fridge is especially important.
Volunteers who bring food to the fridge often, like Katie Austin, said they have seen items flying off the shelf recently.
"If I would bring up a bunch of stuff, the next day it was gone," Austin said. "I'm like, they really do need this stuff."
The Cape Coral Community Fridge, in front of Lee County Plumbing and Supply, is a local spot where anyone can take food or leave it for those who could use a little help.
Austin brings items to the fridge every week.
"They've got a full fridge and full freezer, so everything can stay nice and fresh," Austin said.
The fridge is filled with Thanksgiving meal leftovers. People who brought the food said it's much better to bring it to the fridge than throw it away.
If you want to bring your leftovers, just head to the fridge, and put the food in there. Pantry food is helpful, too. Clothes, books and hardware are also helpful.
Austin said you do want to be careful about what you bring
"If you make a big pot of chili, bring up a couple containers with a spoon," she said. "You've got to remember a lot of these people don't have anything, so they need everything that goes with the meal, too."
Austin said donating brings him joy.
"It's hard, and it's really difficult for a lot of people," said frequent donor Chris Tillman.
Those who take from the fridge said they were grateful to receive it.