Sunshine Ace Hardware has continued its tradition of supporting nonprofits through its annual Big Green EGGFest, even though COVID-19 forced the cancellation of this year’s event.

Slated for April 4 at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs, Sunshine Ace Hardware quickly pivoted after Florida issued a “Safer at Home” order. A Virtual EGGFest, held on the same day, featured chefs offering grilling tips and tutorials, award-winning recipes and product demonstrations through a series of social media videos.

At the Virtual EGGFest, social media users were asked to nominate a local nonprofit deserving of what would have been the grand prize, a Mini Max Big Green Egg and selection of rubs and sauces.

“Nominations began pouring in, and it’s incredibly comforting to know that so many organizations are stepping up during this challenging period,” said Michael Wynn, president of Sunshine Ace Hardware. “Our leadership team ultimately selected St. Matthew’s House because its staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly on the front lines to feed our community. St. Matthew’s House is truly touching hearts and transforming lives.”

The mission of St. Matthew’s House is to provide housing for the homeless, food for the needy, and comfort for the addicted and suffering. The organization offers a food pantry program and on-site chef training.

Additionally, Sunshine Ace Hardware awarded a $200 Sunshine Ace gift card to March of Dimes, which is supporting local health care workers, mothers and newborns during this time of need and crisis.

Since the coronavirus outbreak began, Sunshine Ace has helped provide N95 safety masks, antibacterial soap, sanitizer, cleaning supplies, coveralls and shoe safety covers to NCH Healthcare System and Lee Health. The company’s “Round Up for the Kids” charitable campaign, which runs through April 30, also is raising money for Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida through the Children’s Miracle Network. Customers at any of Sunshine Ace’s nine locations along Florida’s Gulf Coast can round up their purchases at the cash register to support the campaign.