Plans for Thanksgiving Food Basket Distribution and Community Thanksgiving Meal

This Thanksgiving season, FISH of SANCAP (FISH) is partnering with local businesses and community organizations to provide Thanksgiving food baskets and a community meal for island residents and the workforce. The annual program spreads holiday cheer and ensures no family goes without a warm, traditional meal during the holiday.

FISH is currently accepting non-perishable food donations through its holiday food drive, which runs from Oct. 14th through Nov. 15th. Individuals may drop off items at various locations across Sanibel including FISH, Magic Bus, Bank of the Islands, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, and the Sanibel Library. The organization hopes to distribute 250 Thanksgiving baskets this year, and St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church is generously donating pies to accompany each basket.

Volunteers will assemble the dry ingredients for the baskets on Nov. 22nd from 8 AM to 1 PM. Individuals and groups interested in volunteering are encouraged to check POINT, the volunteer opportunity platform offered by FISH. For additional information on POINT or volunteering, please contact Merari Salinas, Community Outreach Manager at FISH.

The FISH Thanksgiving Food Basket distribution will take place at the Food Pantry, 2422 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, on Nov. 25th from 10 AM to 3 PM, Nov. 26th from 10 AM to 7:30 PM, and Nov. 27th from 10 AM to 12 PM. Community members in need, or who know of someone who might benefit from a Thanksgiving Food Basket, should contact Merari Salinis at FISH (239-472-4775 or merari@fishofsancap.org)

The FISH Community Thanksgiving Meal will be held at the Sanibel Community House. While the date is not confirmed, FISH hopes to confirm the gathering during the week of Nov. 24th. FISH is working hard to make this year’s meal the most joyous event ever and is excited to share Thanksgiving with the community. Midwest Food Bank will be providing the beverages, and FISH is actively seeking additional partners to create a festive and welcoming experience for all who attend. More details will be announced soon, and FISH encourages everyone to stay tuned to their social media channels for updates and information.

“We are so grateful for the support we receive from our community partners and volunteers who help us bring the spirit of Thanksgiving to our neighbors,” shared Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “By working together, we can ensure that everyone has a joyful holiday, whether it’s through our Thanksgiving baskets or at our community meal.”

For more information about the FISH Thanksgiving Food Basket distribution or the Community Thanksgiving Meal, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, please contact FISH of SANCAP at 239-472-4775 or visit www.fishofsancap.org.