05/23/2026
We are so proud of you, Matthew!! Keep loving BIG!! This dark world needs you!! ❤️
2026 Don't Worry, Be Happy Annette O'Keefe Humanitarian Award Recipient = Matthew Bounds - Your Barefoot Neighbor
Matthew is known across social media as Your Barefoot Neighbor, he began his cooking journey in 2020 in his Gulfport kitchen. With the extra time the world suddenly had, he taught himself the basics. A couple of years later, he started sharing his progress online, and it quickly became clear that many people were looking for simple, unfussy ways to feed themselves and their families.
Today, millions follow Matthew across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. In his kitchen, there are no dumb questions - only encouragement, basic principles, and recipes that help people feel confident. His community learns together, laughs together, and fixes a plate together.
Matthew’s new exciting endeavor is the opening of his new restaurant in downtown Gulfport – Neighbors Tap & Table. The concept is a neighborhood style bar and restaurant focused on small plates, community, and a relaxed “come as you are” vibe.
The name Your Barefoot Neighbor reflects the values Matthew lives by relatable, friendly, down to earth, and always willing to help. What began as a few DIY videos and cooking attempts has grown into a supportive, connected community that shows up for one another in meaningful ways.
Because of that community, the has provided over a million dollars in assistance to neighbors supporting foster kids, food pantries, LGBTQ+ youth, families in crisis, and countless organizations across the Coast and beyond.
Matthew is continually humbled by messages from people who cooked their first meal because of his videos, ate on a hard day thanks to a simple recipe, or felt seen because he openly shares about his life with his husband, CJ. For him, this work has become far more than cooking it’s about community, compassion, and connection.
