Fort Myers, FL — September 15, 2025 — The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida (CAC) is proud to announce the opening of the newly renovated Harper Foundation Resource Center, made possible through a generous $25,000 grant from the Daniel R. & Anne M. Harper Foundation. The Center has already become a favorite space for staff and families alike, transforming the way CAC delivers critical services to children and families impacted by abuse, neglect, and crisis.

Representatives from the Harper Foundation recently visited the Children’s Advocacy Center to see the newly completed Harper Resource Center in action. During their visit, they were able to witness firsthand the impact their investment has made, offering comfort, and immediate support to families navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

“The Harper Resource Center is more than just a renovated space, it is a symbol of compassion in action,” said Alicia Shannon, Chief Executive Officer. “Thanks to the Harper Foundation, we have essential items right here on site and can respond instantly when a family needs support, removing one more barrier during an already overwhelming time.”

“Our Foundation is proud to support the vital mission of the Children’s Advocacy Center,” said Ronald Inge, Executive Director of the Daniel R. & Anne M. Harper Foundation Board. “The new Harper Resource Center reflects our commitment to helping local families during their greatest time of need. We believe that providing access to basic necessities helps build a foundation of stability and restore a sense of dignity for those facing unimaginable challenges.”

The Harper Resource Center provides clothing, shoes, hygiene products, diapers, and other basic necessities directly to families during their visits to CAC. Previously, staff were limited in their ability to help due to lack of onsite storage and resources. Now, thanks to the Harper Foundation’s funding of the project, CAC can offer timely support that complements their advocacy and counseling services by reducing barriers and building trust with families.

The renovation completed by Stevens Construction converted underutilized space into a welcoming, organized supply center. Within just a few weeks of opening, the Center has already served dozens of families with items that address urgent needs and ease stress during investigations or recovery.

Founded in 1981, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida provides coordinated services to child victims of abuse and neglect, serving over 6,000 children annually across Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Charlotte counties. All services are offered free of charge.

To learn more or support the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida, visit www.cac-swfl.org