September is Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign reminding us that “We Can End Hunger—When We All Work Together.” In Lee County and across Southwest Florida, the need is significant: approximately one in six individuals face food insecurity. According to the Harry Chapin Food Bank, more than 39.5 million pounds of food was distributed in the five-county footprint, including 18.4 million distributed in Lee County in 2024, a 16% increase over 2023.
Seniors are also facing tough choices, often deciding between buying groceries or paying for vital medications as grocery prices remain high. FISH sees the impact of these impossible choices every day and is working to ease the burden through several feeding programs. All programs require a quick, easy application or intake discussion with FISH team members:
- Food Pantry | Stocked with fresh produce, shelf-stable items, dairy, frozen proteins (as available), household goods, and personal care products | Location: 2422 Periwinkle Way | Updated Hours: 10a–3p Monday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday | 10a–7p Tuesday | Closed Saturday–Sunday
- Meals by FISH & Monthly Meal Kits | Provides ready-to-eat meals for seniors, neighbors recovering from illness, and those unable to cook. In addition, Meal Kits are offered throughout the year with family-friendly ingredients. Follow FISH social media for the next distribution date.
- Youth Backpack Program | Provides children with a weekend pack filled with snacks and simple meals. This ensures kids don’t go hungry when school is closed and helps them return Monday ready to learn. Studies show that children who have consistent access to nutritious food perform better in school, display improved behavior, and have higher attendance rates.
“Hunger looks different for everyone,” says Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “For children, it can mean struggling in school because they’re too hungry to concentrate. For seniors, it can mean skipping meals to afford prescriptions. Hunger Action Month reminds us that we can change these outcomes—together.”
FISH works with food bank partners, Harry Chapin Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank and relies on community support year-round to keep its food programs strong. Neighbors can help in many ways—by making a donation that allows FISH to purchase the most-needed items, volunteering to assist in the pantry or with meal and backpack programs, or spreading the word so others know help is available. Those interested in hosting a food drive with their workplace, faith group, or community club are encouraged to collaborate with Merari Salinas at merari@fishofsancap.org. Even the simple act of connecting a neighbor in need to FISH services makes a difference.
Among the items most needed at the FISH Food Pantry are canned proteins such as chicken, tuna, salmon, and beans; rice, pasta, and boxed meals; cooking oil and condiments; and breakfast staples including cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, and syrup. Shelf-stable milk and juice boxes are also in high demand, along with baby food, diapers, and personal care products like soap, toothpaste, and shampoo. Donations of fresh produce, milk, and eggs are especially welcomed, and FISH has the capacity to refrigerate and distribute these perishable items safely.
For more information on FISH’s feeding programs, pantry needs, or upcoming Meal Kit dates, visit fishofsancap.org or call 239-472-4775.
