FISH of SanCap extends sincere thanks to the Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market and its dedicated vendors for their continued support of the FISH food pantry.
Each week during the market season, vendors set aside fresh produce, breads and other items that are collected, sorted, and stocked by FISH volunteers. This steady supply has helped ensure that pantry users have access to healthy, nutritious food options.
“Access to fresh produce makes a real difference for the families we serve,” said Merari Puente, Food Programs Manager at FISH. “These donations allow us to offer quality, healthy food that many of our clients would otherwise go without. We are grateful to Nelly Zuniga of Aurora Fresh Produce and Christian Foerchner of European Bakery, as well as other market vendors, and to our volunteers who show up each weekend to make sure this food reaches those who need it.”
FISH also recognizes the volunteers who support this effort week after week. Their work behind the scenes keeps the pantry running. From early morning pickups to sorting and stocking shelves, their consistency ensures that no donation goes to waste.
The need for food assistance in Lee County continues to rise. Nearly 45% of households fall into the ALICE category or live below the poverty line. These are working individuals and families who struggle to cover basic needs. Rising grocery prices and higher fuel costs have made it harder for many to keep food on the table.
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. It describes households that earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford basic living costs like housing, food, childcare, healthcare, and transportation. In Lee County, many ALICE households work full-time or multiple jobs. Even so, rising costs for groceries, gas, and rent leave little room in their budgets.
As the community moves into the summer months, demand for pantry services is expected to increase. At the same time, the seasonal closure of the Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market and the departure of seasonal residents lead to a sharp decline in food donations.
Without weekly donations of fresh items and with fewer donor contributions, the pantry faces increased pressure to meet growing demand. Community support will be critical in the months ahead. Donations of food and funds help ensure that FISH can continue to provide consistent access to groceries for individuals and families that live or work on Sanibel and Captiva.
FISH remains focused on helping meet basic needs so no one has to choose between feeding their family and paying for prescriptions, education, or other essentials. As seasonal work slows and hours are reduced for many in the service industry, FISH continues to support neighbors as they continue to struggle with rising costs and limited income.
