A single mom who works on Captiva shared her heartfelt thanks to FISH of SanCap (FISH) and Social Services Director, Nitza Lopez, for the helping hand that kept her and her daughter in their home. FISH, the islands’ social service organization, provides assistance through four key pillars — Food Programs, Island-Based Education, Senior Services, and Helping Hands — each designed to support neighbors through life’s everyday and unexpected challenges.
“I’ve worked on Captiva for several years and have always loved being part of this community,” she said. “But during the off season, it can be hard to make ends meet as a single mom. When things got tight, FISH stepped in and truly lifted a weight off my shoulders. Their rental assistance gave me the stability I needed to keep our home and focus on caring for my little girl. Everyone I spoke with was kind, patient, and understanding—I never felt judged, only supported. I’ll never forget how Nitza and FISH helped me through this difficult time.” For privacy reasons, the individual wishes to remain anonymous.
FISH’s Helping Hands Rent Financial Assistance Program, funded in part by a grant from The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation, continues to be a vital resource for islanders and workers who face unexpected financial struggles. In Lee County, median rental rates rose sharply from $1,708 in 2023 to $1,967 in 2024 — a jump of more than 15% in just one year.[i]
While recent data in late 2025 shows a slight decline, with average rents now around $1,924, that modest drop offers little relief for local workers who continue to face higher living costs and fewer work hours during the slower season. For many who rely on seasonal employment on Sanibel and Captiva, even small gaps in income can make it difficult to stay current on rent and household expenses.
“These stories are common,” said Nitza Lopez, FISH’s Social Services Director. “When people reach out, it’s not because they haven’t tried—it’s because they’ve exhausted every option. Sometimes a single month of rent assistance makes all the difference. We’re grateful to be able to help bridge that gap.”
The Helping Hands program supports those who live or work on Sanibel and Captiva with short-term financial aid for rent, mortgage, utilities, medical bills, and other urgent needs. Each case is handled confidentiality, ensuring that families, seniors, and individuals receive the help they need during tough times.
Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH, expressed her gratitude to The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation for their continued support. “The Foundation’s generosity allows us to meet real needs for local families who might otherwise fall behind. Their commitment to our community helps keep neighbors in their homes and gives families a chance to breathe again. We’re so thankful for their partnership.”
FISH encourages anyone struggling to reach out for assistance—and invites those able to help to consider donating to the Helping Hands Financial Assistance Program. Together, the community can ensure that island residents and workers have a stable place to call home.
[i] Cape Coral Breeze and Zillow
