FISH OF SANCAP Assists Local Families in the Wake of Hurricane Milton’s Devastation

As Hurricane Milton leaves a path of destruction across Southwest Florida, many families find themselves once again picking up the pieces. With the third major storm coming close to or hitting Lee County in just over two years—following Hurricanes Ian and Helene—residents are grappling with the financial and emotional toll of yet another catastrophic event. FISH OF SANCAP, a ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ nonprofit and United Way Resiliency Hub, is stepping up to provide critical assistance to families affected by the storm, offering resources, supplies, and support during this difficult time.

Among the many seeking help is Sarah whose name has been changed for privacy purposes. Sarah is a middle-aged mother of one who evacuated to Florida’s east coast when the storm was upgraded to a Category 5 and mandatory evacuations were ordered. “I called around to every hotel in the area, but there was nothing available. I had no choice but to drive hours away just to keep my child safe,” she recalls. The cost of evacuation—hotel stays, food, gas—pushed her to her limits. Now, with her home near the beach flooded and possible roof damage to deal with, Sarah is facing a reality she never imagined: starting over once again.

“I can’t believe this is happening to us again,” Sarah says, reflecting on the hurricanes that have devastated her community. “Ian was a nightmare, Helene was difficult since we had just finished repairing from Ian, and now Milton—this ‘hurricane trifecta’ has completely overwhelmed me. The money I spent just trying to get out of harm’s way has set me back at least two months, probably longer. I don’t know how I’m going to pay for all the repairs and still put food on the table. I’m just exhausted.”

Sarah, who works at a restaurant on Sanibel, is also dealing with the uncertainty of her job. “I’m so worried about the restaurant. I don’t know how long we’ll be closed, and I need an income. I’m willing to do anything for work, I just need help.”

That’s when Sarah turned to FISH. The organization has been distributing supplies and Publix gift cards to help families with immediate food needs, and for those like Sarah, they are offering hope. “I’m so grateful for FISH. They’re helping us with groceries, gift cards, and hopefully some financial assistance. It’s just a relief to know someone’s there when you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom. The team at FISH makes me feel like I’m not so alone.”

FISH is committed to assisting families impacted by Hurricane Milton, providing essentials like food, water, and cleaning supplies, as well as financial support to those who qualify. “Our community is resilient, but even the strongest need a helping hand after enduring three major hurricanes in such a short period of time,” said Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “We’re here to help people recover, rebuild, and find hope again.”

FISH continues to monitor the needs of the community and is ready to support those facing hardships in the wake of this latest disaster.

To learn more about the services offered or to donate to the Hurricane Milton relief efforts, visit www.fishofsancap.org.