The FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Foundation AngelFISH Society recently gathered for its end of season spring gathering, bringing together women from across the islands for an evening centered on connection and community support. The event, held at the Sanibel Community House, highlighted the success and growth of the AngelFISH Kitchen initiative.
The gathering focused on the importance of creating opportunities for neighbors to come together through food, education and shared experiences. Conversations throughout the evening echoed the strong enthusiasm surrounding the AngelFISH Kitchen program and its impact on seniors, families and individuals looking for healthier, affordable ways to prepare meals at home.
The evening also marked continued growth for the women’s giving circle, welcoming three additional participants following the event. The AngelFISH Society now includes 61 women, making it the largest group since the Society launched in 2020.
“This gathering showed exactly what AngelFISH is all about, women coming together to support and strengthen our community,” said Linda Uhler, AngelFISH Committee Chair. “The success of the AngelFISH Kitchen has been incredibly rewarding to witness. We have seen people gain confidence in the kitchen, learn healthier habits, and reconnect through shared meals and conversation. None of this happens without the generosity, compassion and commitment of the AngelFISH women involved.”
The AngelFISH Kitchen initiative provided air fryer/oven unit combo appliances to seniors and families, paired with educational classes focused on nutrition, healthy cooking and meal preparation. Topics included understanding nutrition labels, creating balanced meals using the MyPlate concept, preparing healthier versions of favorite foods, and finding ways to maximize ingredients available through the FISH Food Pantry. Participants also received ingredients to recreate recipes at home, helping continue the learning beyond the classroom.
Cooking demonstrations became a favorite part of the program, featuring meals such as salmon, chicken dishes, homemade pizzas and healthier alternatives to fried foods.
The response to the program exceeded expectations, with many participants sharing how much they valued both the education and the opportunity to gather with others.
Additional AngelFISH Kitchen classes and gatherings are being considered for the summer, with dates and locations to be determined.
The AngelFISH Committee extends sincere thanks to everyone who supported the AngelFISH Kitchen initiative. A heartfelt thank you goes to the women of the AngelFISH Society for their continued generosity, compassion and commitment to strengthening the community through programs that make a direct difference in the lives of neighbors across the islands.
Women interested in becoming part of the AngelFISH Society may contact Linda Uhler for more information at luhlersanibel@gmail.com.
