Bringing Holiday Joy to 359 Children: FISH of SANCAP’s Holiday Gift Program

The holidays can be an incredibly challenging time for families already struggling to make ends meet, and this year was no exception. Many are still dealing with the lasting effects of Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton, including the loss of work hours, jobs, and the overwhelming financial strain of home repairs and inflation. For these families, providing holiday cheer for their children may feel out of reach.

Thanks to the incredible support from United Way Gifts In-Kind and other community donations, FISH of SANCAP’s Holiday Gift Program brought joy to 359 children this year. Each child received four toys and a board game to share with their family, spreading the spirit of the season throughout their homes.

The smiles and gratitude from families were heartwarming. Parents shared how the program made a huge difference during challenging times. For some, this was the first time they felt hope in a long time – many are still recovering from the storms and ongoing financial challenges.

One parent expressed, “With everything we’ve been through this year, I didn’t think I’d be able to give my kids any gifts. FISH and United Way made that possible, and it means the world to us.”

Another single mom notes she cried ‘tears of joy’ watching her kids open gifts on Christmas morning, and how happy everyone was while playing multiple rounds of Scrabble® together as a family. She also notes thanks to FISH for the holiday meal basket, and how ‘normal’ it felt to be cooking for her family, despite ongoing repairs to her home since Hurricane Ian and, more recently, Hurricane Milton.

The FISH holiday program is about more than gifts; it’s about lifting spirits, raising connections, and ensuring that every family has the opportunity to experience the magic of the holidays. It’s about reminding families that they are not alone, and that support is available.

“We are deeply grateful to United Way Gifts In-Kind and all our supporters for helping us deliver holiday joy,” notes Merari Salinas, Community Outreach Manager, FISH. “Together, we continue to stand with our neighbors, ensuring brighter days ahead for those who live and work on Sanibel and Captiva Islands.”

To learn more about FISH and other ways the organization supports the community, please visit www.fishofsancap.org.