Fireworks deposit paid by non-profit for Fort Myers Beach 4th of July celebration

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla.—The Town of Fort Myers Beach has provided an update regarding its upcoming Fourth of July fireworks celebration, saying that the fireworks deposit has been paid by the organization “What’s Up FMB.”

On Tuesday, the town issued a news release stating that the nonprofit’s donation will help Fort Myers Beach reach its $129,000 goal in time for the Fourth of July holiday.

Currently, the town has generated $80,734.80, noting that the fundraiser is broken down into three categories: the barge, of which $40,000 was already donated by VesselCraft Homes, fireworks – $44,000, $25,000 of which was donated by The Whale, and permitting and support, for which they still need about $45,000.

The Town of Fort Myers Beach remains optimistic that it will reach its goal before the holiday.

WINK News began covering this story in early February, noting that the town council had initially canceled the fireworks due to financial constraints, but What's Up FMB is stepping in to make sure the celebration goes on.

Karen Woodsen, vice president of What's Up FMB, said, "The number of people that come to the beach for the fireworks, I mean, it's what they need is what they want." She explained that the nonprofit is working with the town to handle the funding while the town manages the event logistics.