Matanzas Craft Beer Fest on the Bay raises $3,500 for Operation Open Arms

Event proceeds to benefit military outreach efforts, PTSD mental health care

Matanzas on the Bay’s first-ever craft beer event, “Matanzas Craft Beer Fest on the Bay,” has raised $3,500 for Operation Open Arms, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military personnel.

Held at Matanzas on the Bay’s waterfront setting along the back bay of Fort Myers Beach, Matanzas Craft Beer Fest on the Bay featured a selection of craft beers poured by five local breweries including Bone Hook Brewing Company, Fort Myers Brewing Company, Momentum Brewhouse, Palm City Brewing and Point Ybel Brewing Company. Matanzas on the Bay served up a mouthwatering spread of tasty bites from its menu, and live music was enjoyed throughout the event with performances by Soulixer and Sheena Brook.

“Our first-ever Matanzas Craft Beer Fest on the Bay was a big hit, and we are thankful for all who came out for a great day in support of our local military,” said Tony Coppolino, general manager of Matanzas on the Bay. “Matanzas on the Bay is a longtime supporter of Operation Open Arms, and we’re honored to help this organization’s important efforts to positively impact the lives of the many men and women who have selflessly dedicated their lives to serving our country.”

Operation Open Arms is a 501(c)(3) charity and nationally acclaimed military outreach program that provides active, foreign duty U.S. service personnel every possible act of kindness through unique outreach services and PTSD mental health care within 30 days of returning home from deployment. For the past 13 years, Operation Open Arms has continued to make a difference in the lives of more than 3,900 U.S. troops returning from combat or foreign duty stations, totaling $16.3 million in direct tangible benefits.

For more information about Operation Open Arms and its efforts, visit www.OperationOpenArms.org.