As 2025 comes to an end, FISH of SanCap is looking back on a year filled with steady growth and closer connections across the islands. It was the first time in a long while that Florida made it through a full season without a storm—and after the hurricanes of 2022 and 2024, that break felt like a real gift, giving families and businesses some much-needed breathing room to keep rebuilding.
But even in blue skies, the challenges didn’t disappear. Some neighbors are still not back in their homes, and many continue to face financial and emotional hurdles as they work to recover. The need for support is still very real, and FISH will continue to be right there beside them every step of the way.
Throughout it all, FISH shows up—every day, for every neighbor—through its four pillars of service, each of which saw increased participation and growth in 2025.
Food Programs | Food insecurity remained one of the most pressing issues. Reductions and changes in SNAP benefits hit families particularly hard, widening gaps for those already struggling. A slower tourist season added additional pressure, leaving many island workers with reduced hours—or no shifts at all—making it nearly impossible to keep up with rising costs. FISH’s Food Pantry and Backpack Program saw significant increases in use. The shelves stayed stocked thanks to partners, donors, and grantors who understood the urgency. More neighbors turned to FISH for weekly groceries, fresh produce, kids’ after-school snacks, and weekend food support than ever before.
Island-Based Education | After several post-hurricane years focused on recovery, FISH was delighted to bring back its educational workshops near the end of 2025—and is even more excited to expand them in the year ahead. Workshops on financial literacy, health and wellness, hurricane readiness, caregiving, and youth development are already in the pipeline for 2026. These opportunities give residents and workers useful tools that make daily life easier and more sustainable—whether they’re strengthening their finances, learning about mental health resources, or preparing their households for future emergencies.
Senior Services | With many island seniors choosing to age in place, participation in FISH’s senior programs grew as well. Friendly Faces Luncheons continued to be a bright spot each month, bringing neighbors together for good food, good company, and important conversations. Smile boxes, filled with thoughtful items and personal touches, brought joy to older adults who appreciate a little extra care. These programs along with other FISH senior services offered comfort, connection, and support to seniors in the community.
Helping Hands | Requests for financial assistance grew visibly in 2025. Many households sought help not only with rent, medical expenses and other essentials but also with electricity and water bills. The high cost of housing—along with wages affected by a weaker tourist season—kept a steady stream of neighbors reaching out for support.
With the support of the community, FISH enters 2026 with hope and purpose. Growing senior initiatives, expanded workshops, and enhanced disaster response programs will continue strengthening the islands’ readiness, recovery, and long-term wellbeing. It’s a future built on collaboration, compassion, and the belief that neighbors truly can help neighbors through anything.
“We are so grateful for every person who stood with us this year—our partners, donors, volunteers, and advocates,” says Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “Your generosity kept our shelves full, our programs growing, and our doors open to anyone who needed help. Every gift of time, talent, and treasure made a difference, and because of you, we can continue doing what we do best: supporting our neighbors through whatever comes next.”
To learn more about supporting the good work of FISH of SanCap—whether through volunteering, donating, or partnering—please reach out. Together, FISH can continue strengthening the island community in the year ahead. Visit www.fishofsancap.org or call 239-472-4775.
