Fort Myers community rallies to support vulnerable in cold weather

As temperatures dipped overnight in Southwest Florida, local organizations, including Kimmie's Recovery Zone, stepped up to help the most vulnerable. 

They set up at the Leetran South Fort Myers bus station, handing out blankets, gloves, and hats, while reminding people that there is someone who cares for them.

Kimmie's Recovery Zone was present all morning, not only providing cold-weather essentials but also resources for those in need. Some expressed gratitude with a simple 'thank you,' while others became emotional, telling the volunteers that this moment of kindness was exactly what they needed.

"We're here to try to show people that there is a warm handoff, that we do care, and we're here for them, and whatever we can do for them, we're going to do," said Al Kinkle, founder of Kimmie's Recovery Zone.

Bret Berlent, who utilized the resources, said, "If there were more people like this, it probably won't be so many cold people at night."

The volunteers transformed a cold bus stop into a welcoming space. Simple items like blankets, gloves, and hats can mean everything on a night like this. For one man, this act of kindness restored his hope.

"I was losing faith, and now this just brings it back. So it's just little things like this. You know, you never know what the next day is going to bring. So there's always tomorrow, right?" said Berlent.

For one volunteer, the mission is personal. "I was homeless, addicted, and in despair, and I reached out to a local organization called Kimmie's Recovery Zone," said Pedro Nunez, who works for the organization. "So by me being in that struggle, a part of that struggle, and overcoming that struggle. You know, I can relate to somebody like that, and that causes that vulnerability."

As the night grew colder, the compassion at the bus station only grew stronger, showing that even in the chilliest moments, community warmth can make all the difference.

"Share the love. Don't give up on anybody believing in them. And if there's somebody that you haven't called in a while, give them a phone call. They're waiting for you to call. I'm sure," said Kinkle.

Kimmie's Recovery Zone emphasized that moments like these remind them why their mission is crucial, and reactions like those they witnessed help change lives.