Each Sunday throughout the season, something meaningful takes place at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market. As vendors pack up for the day, many set aside fresh fruits, vegetables, breads, and other items to donate to FISH OF SANCAP. These generous contributions go directly to the FISH Food Pantry, helping neighbors in need access nutritious, locally sourced food.
The collaboration between FISH and the Farmers Market has been going strong for years, and the impact is felt deeply in the community.
“We are beyond grateful to Betsy Ventura and Jean Baer of Local Roots, and to every vendor who chooses to donate each week,” said Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “Our clients really look forward to these items. Knowing they’re grown or baked right here in Southwest Florida adds a special touch.”
Donations from the Market help offset rising pantry costs and bring a touch of comfort and dignity to neighbors who are facing hard times. “When folks walk in and see apples, greens, or fresh bread from the Market, it brings a little joy to the day. It makes a difference,” said one pantry volunteer.
FISH sees a steady increase in pantry visits, especially during the summer months when the island’s seasonal workforce experiences reduced hours—or in some cases, no work at all. The slowdown in tourism, paired with rising grocery prices, makes it difficult for many families to afford fresh items. A large portion of pantry clients are workers whose jobs depend on the hospitality and service industries, which take a hit once the snowbirds head home.
“For us, the Market donations are a lifeline,” said one pantry client and full-time restaurant employee. “During the summer, my hours get cut and my paycheck drops. I still have rent, gas, and kids to feed. Having fresh produce from the pantry means I can make a healthy meal without spending what little I have at the store.”
In addition to food donations, the Sanibel Market also supports FISH in many other ways—offering space to promote events like the JOG N JAM and helping spread the word about services available to the community. This kind of visibility and support makes a big impact on a small island.
The Sanibel Island Farmers Market is organized and operated by Local Roots, LLC, owned by Lee County residents Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura. Founded in 2008, Local Roots now manages nine of the largest Farmers Markets in Southwest Florida. The Sanibel Market is open seasonally from October through May and is a cherished weekend tradition for locals and visitors alike. The goods found at Local Roots markets are fresh, local, and packed with flavor. “Stop by one of the Local Roots Farmers Markets,” says their motto—“It’s the Best Thing Growing!”
As the season winds down, FISH knows they’ll miss the Sunday deliveries and the Market’s spirit of giving. But they’re already counting the days until the Market returns in October. Until then, FISH will continue to stock the Pantry with healthy staples and hopes the community will help fill the seasonal gap. Donations of canned and packaged food, personal hygiene items, and financial contributions are all welcomed and needed.
