FORT MYERS, Fla. – Bimini Bait Shack is back in business, reopening its doors for the first time since Hurricane Milton. But it’s not just about their comeback; They were rallying the community to support the staff of The Boathouse, the iconic Cape Coral restaurant that tragically burned down just over a week ago.

Music filled the air and the place was filled with people enjoying drinks, enjoying the food, and imbibing good vibes – all for a good cause. After Hurricane Milton’s storm surge knocked out power and caused crop loss, general manager Amy Lawrence said it felt great to be back.

Austin Schargorodski

“It’s been so gratifying to see everyone being engaged, supporting local businesses and especially supporting the boathouse, they’ve been a part of the community for over a decade,” Lawrence said.

Bimini Bait Shack is donating ten percent of Sunday’s sales and raffles to help the boathouse and its employees. After three hurricanes and the latest fire, the Boathouse has faced disaster after disaster, but Lawrence said the support at Bimini Bait Shack shows how much the community cares.

Austin Schargorodski

“My goal is to crush this for their staff and it looks like we’ll be able to make great progress and put some money in their pockets,” Lawrence said.