At 60 years old, living alone and facing unexpected health issues, one local neighbor never imagined she would need to rely on a food pantry. But after losing her job—and with it, her employer-provided health insurance—she says the FISH Food Pantry has helped her stay on her feet during a challenging time.
“I worked my whole life,” she shared. “When I lost my job, I thought I would find another one quickly. But months have gone by. At my age, and with some physical limitations, it hasn’t been easy. The pantry has truly helped me get by. I don’t know what I would have done without it.”
She now visits the FISH pantry about once a month, though there have been times she’s needed to come more frequently. What she values most is that FISH operates as a choice pantry, allowing neighbors to select items that meet their needs and personal preferences.
“It makes a difference to be able to choose,” she said. “Other places just hand you a box. Here, I can pick what I know I’ll use.”
Even a modest grocery trip for basic staples and essential household items adds up quickly. For someone living alone without steady income—while also managing medical expenses—that cost can feel overwhelming. Once the essential bills are paid, there isn’t always much left to fill the pantry.
According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study, an estimated 1 in 12 seniors in Lee County, Florida faces food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to enough nutritious food to live an active, healthy life. Rising housing costs, medical expenses, and limited employment options can quickly put older adults in a difficult position.
FISH, a United Way resiliency hub serving Sanibel and Captiva, sees this firsthand. Many older adults are still part of the workforce—or trying to reenter it—especially after financial setbacks from recent storms and the increasing cost of living. When employment disappears, even temporarily, the impact can be immediate.
“More and more, we’re seeing seniors who are still trying to work but can’t find employment that fits their abilities,” said Merari Puente, Food Programs Manager at FISH. “When something unexpected happens—like a job loss or medical issue—it can turn their world upside down. Our goal is to make sure no one has to choose between buying groceries and paying for medicine.”
Through its food pantry and other food programs, FISH helps ease the pressure families and individuals feel when budgets are stretched thin. The food pantry program is supported, in part, through grant funding provided by The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation, along with private donors, generous community members who participate in “buy one, give one” efforts, and local food drives that keep shelves stocked throughout the year.
For neighbors like this 60-year-old, the pantry has become a steady source of support while she continues her job search and manages her health.
“I’m still looking for work,” she said. “I haven’t given up. But knowing I can come here and get what I need for the month takes a weight off my shoulders.”
FISH continues to serve neighbors across the islands, offering not only food assistance but also connections to financial help, referrals, and additional support when needed.
