Picture by Bernando Doral and Gato Rivero
Audio By Carbonatix
Gloria Estefan and Gisele Bündchen are lending their voices and star power to a critical cause in the heart of Miami. Proving that they are not just pretty faces, the Latin music legend and the Brazilian supermodel have joined forces to urge the community to donate non-perishable food to Lotus House, the nation’s largest shelter for women and children, located in Overtown.
“Our neighbors are hungry,” Bündchen said in a heartfelt appeal. “If you could please drop any non-perishable food that you have available at Lotus House Shelter, it would be greatly appreciated.” Estefan followed with a plea of her own: “All of you know the necessity that there is, and the food is really necessary here. We need all the help we can get.”
Earlier this week, Lotus House shared an urgent message on social media: the shelter’s dry pantry was nearly empty after just three days of distribution. “With funding sources facing uncertainty, you can be the reason a family in need doesn’t go hungry,” the post read. With food insecurity rising due to the ongoing government shutdown and uncertainty around SNAP benefits, the demand for support is higher than ever.
“Help us feed our neighbors. Our food pantry is nearly empty,” the shelter posted. “We’re asking our community to come together to support those most in need.”
We’re thankful for you. Are you thankful for us?
We feel thankful for our staff and for the privilege of fulfilling our mission to be an unparalleled source of information and insight in Miami. We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to this community.
Help us continue giving back to Miami.
Food donations can be dropped off anytime at 217 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL 33136. Supporters can also click the Amazon wishlist created by the shelter, send canned goods, and pantry items directly. Another way to give: host a food drive, or contribute financially via www.lotushouse.org, where donations or gift cards from local grocery stores are gratefully accepted.
Estefan, who recently celebrated 50 years in music with a street named after her in South Beach, continues to lead with heart — using her legacy to shine a light on local issues that matter. In a recent interview with The Times, she addressed her worries about the ongoing crackdown on immigration.
Since 2006, Lotus House has sheltered over 12,500 women and children, offering more than just food and shelter; they provide therapy, education, employment training, and most importantly, hope. Now, they’re asking Miami to step up once again.
