Late last month, the Midwest Food Bank National Board of Directors visited FISH OF SANCAP, reinforcing the crucial partnership that helps keep FISH’s Food Pantry stocked and ready to serve the community. As a nonprofit dedicated to feeding those in need, Midwest Food Bank provides FISH with much-needed pantry staples and essential items that support Sanibel and Captiva residents and workers through life’s ups and downs.
“The FISH Food Pantry is a lifeline for so many in our community,” said Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH. “With the rising cost of living and the lasting impacts of the 2022 and 2024 hurricanes, the need for food assistance has only grown. Thanks to partners like Midwest Food Bank, we can continue to provide nourishment and relief to our neighbors—no matter the circumstances.”
The most-used resource at FISH, the pantry provides supplemental groceries to individuals and families.
FISH has recorded 7,079 visits to its Food Pantry in 2024, emphasizing the ongoing need for food assistance. From island residents facing financial hardships to workers commuting daily to serve the community, FISH ensures that everyone has access to nutritious food, whether in blue skies or grey. With unexpected, unbudgeted remediation or repair costs, along with lost work hours and livelihoods, many continue to struggle from the hurricanes over the last 2.5 years. The pantry offers fresh produce, frozen meats, dairy products, dry goods, and even household essentials, helping families stretch their budgets and focus on recovery and stability.
The partnership with Midwest Food Bank plays a significant role in keeping the pantry stocked with high-quality products. Their recent visit allowed the FISH team to express gratitude, discuss current needs, and strengthen plans for continued support. A representative from Midwest Food Bank states, “Our National Board didn’t just meet to plan—they volunteered! While shaping our hunger relief strategy, they joined FISH to pack meals for families in need. True leadership is about showing up. Thank you to our board and FISH for making a difference!”
The mission of Midwest Food Bank to share the love of Christ by alleviating hunger and malnutrition and providing disaster relief. Their vision is to serve those in need with excellence, providing physical and spiritual nourishment. Their story started in 2003 when the Kieser family actioned their faith to share their blessings. They turned a shed on their family farm into a distribution site for local food pantries. Soon they realized the need was more significant, and there was room for growth. Midwest Food Bank now shares the blessings worldwide and currently distributes nearly $34 million worth of food to over 2,200 non-profit organizations each month. To learn more, visit their website, midwestfoodbank.org.
As hurricane recovery efforts continue and the cost of food remains high, FISH remains committed to serving all who need help, no matter the season or circumstance. Partnerships like the one with Midwest Food Bank ensure that no one on Sanibel or Captiva has to face food insecurity alone.
The Food Pantry is a vital service for residents and the workforce.?The updated pantry hours allow for greater accessibility:
- Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
If you or someone you know is facing food insecurity, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva is here to help. No one should have to go without a meal. Contact FISH at 239-472-4775 to learn more about their Food Pantry and assistance programs—because everyone deserves access to nutritious food, no matter the circumstances.
