Naples Hooters Contributes $6,000 and 100 Backpacks to Aid Homeless Students via Christmas in July Foundation

Hooters of Naples reaffirmed its commitment to community support by donating $6,000 and 100 fully stocked backpacks to the Christmas in July Foundation of Collier County. This special check presentation occurred on July 28 at their Naples location, situated at 3625 Gateway Lane. The donation drive spanned the month of July, encouraging restaurant guests to contribute backpacks and school supplies to assist students in need.

This year’s initiative was sponsored by Kitchens by Clay, a luxury kitchen design and remodeling company in Naples, led by Clay Cox, a longtime supporter and customer of Hooters. Joining the Hooters team and representatives from the foundation, Cox illustrated the importance of business partnerships in aiding vulnerable youth.

The Christmas in July Foundation of Collier County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students in Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) identified as homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The foundation provides essential items like backpacks, school supplies, and clothing to help these students return to school with confidence. While the name implies a seasonal initiative, the foundation’s efforts continue throughout the year, addressing ongoing student needs.

“Our team at Naples Hooters is committed to assisting children in our community who are homeless or at risk as they prepare for the 2025–2026 school year,” stated Kristi Quarles, Marketing Director for Hooters of South Florida. “We take pride in supporting the Christmas in July Foundation and appreciate Clay Cox and our generous customers who make our efforts possible. Our goal is to ensure that every child starts the school year equipped for success.”

Since 2023, Hooters of Naples has donated $22,000 and 596 backpacks to the foundation, underscoring the restaurant’s dedication to community engagement.

Operating 15 restaurants in South Florida, Hooters regularly participates in charitable initiatives, including youth programs, veterans’ services, and health initiatives.

For more information on Hooters of South Florida and their outreach programs, visit www.HootersFlorida.com, follow them on Instagram @SouthFLHooters, on Twitter @HootersFlorida, or like their Facebook page at facebook.com/hootersflorida.

Photo from Naples Hooters

Key Information

• Event: Donation Presentation
• Date: July 28
• Location: Hooters of Naples, 3625 Gateway Lane
• Donation Amount: $6,000 and 100 stocked backpacks
• Sponsor: Kitchens by Clay
• Organization Benefiting: Christmas in July Foundation of Collier County
• Total Contributions Since 2023: $22,000 and 596 backpacks
• Mission: Support homeless and at-risk students in Collier County Public Schools
• Website: www.HootersFlorida.com