The holiday season brings joy and togetherness, but it can also bring added stress for families already struggling with rising grocery costs and everyday expenses. To help ease that burden, FISH of SanCap (FISH) is once again providing Thanksgiving food baskets for island residents and members of the workforce. The annual tradition ensures that neighbors can gather around the table and enjoy a warm, traditional holiday meal without added financial worry.
This year, FISH hopes to distribute 250 baskets filled with Thanksgiving staples, thanks to the generosity of community partners and donors. Each basket will include a pie, donated by St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, which will be shared during Thanksgiving week beginning November 24—the week following basket distribution.
“Holiday planning can be expensive, and we know the stress that comes with trying to make ends meet,” says Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “With food prices continuing to rise, we want families to know they are not alone. These baskets are one way we can share the holiday spirit and remind our neighbors that this community truly cares.”
Non-perishable food donations for the holiday drive are being accepted through Nov. 14 at drop-off locations including FISH, Magic Bus, Bank of the Islands, Sanibel-Captiva Islands Association of REALTORS, Doc Ford’s, A Bit of Bailey’s, Jerry’s, and the Sanibel Library.
Volunteers will gather on Nov. 17 to assemble the baskets. Anyone wishing to lend a hand can sign up through POINT, FISH’s volunteer platform, or contact Merari Salinas, Food Programs Manager.
Distribution will take place at the FISH Food Pantry, 2422 Periwinkle Way, on Nov. 18 from 10 AM–7 PM; Nov. 19 from 10 AM–3:00 PM; and Nov. 20 from 10 AM–3 PM. Those in need of a basket—or who know someone who would benefit—can contact FISH at 239-472-4775 or merari@fishofsancap.org.
FISH extends gratitude to the many community partners, volunteers, and donors who make this program possible and help bring comfort and cheer to the holiday season.
