| In March, FISH of SanCap is recognizing National Nutrition Month® — an annual campaign sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that encourages people to learn more about healthy food choices and build positive eating and movement habits. The 2026 theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” highlights the important role food plays in daily life.
In Lee County, many families are working hard to put nutritious food on the table while managing rising costs. According to Feeding Florida, 69% of food bank–assisted households have had to choose between food and transportation. Limited access to healthy food can lead to serious health challenges, impact a child’s ability to learn and grow, and force seniors living on fixed incomes to choose between food and critical healthcare.
Additional data from Feeding Florida and the Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida shows food insecurity has continued to rise in the region between 2023 and 2025. Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap 2023 reports that 13.5% of Lee County households experience food insecurity, affecting thousands of local families.
“Nutritious food plays an important role in everyday wellbeing,” said Merari Puente, Food Programs Manager at FISH. “When families can get good food, kids feel ready for school, parents can work with less worry, and seniors can better manage their health. That kind of support really matters when life gets hard.”
In 2025, FISH distributed 294,323 pounds of food through their food pantry program. Through pantry distributions, weekend backpacks for school-aged children, meal kits for families, and ready-to-eat meals for neighbors who need extra support, FISH helps ease food stress across Sanibel and Captiva. These programs include fresh produce through the organization’s partnership with the Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market, along with nutritious staples that help families stretch their budgets and feel confident about the food they bring home.
The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation provides partial funding in support of FISH’s food pantry program, helping ensure these services remain available to neighbors throughout the year. The SanCap Kiwanis Club, Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club, Suncoast Credit Union, and Lee County Bar Association provide partial funding to support the youth food backpack program, also available year-round.
Additional food program partners include the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Midwest Food Bank, donations from local grocery stores such as Jerry’s Foods and A Bit of Bailey’s, as well as business- and community-led food drives.
As a community United Way Resiliency Hub, FISH supports neighbors through short-term challenges and longer-term recovery after storms or other disruptions. Reducing hunger and supporting healthy eating habits are a core part of strengthening the community.
For many households, preparing balanced meals can be difficult when grocery costs compete with other needs. Reliable access to food through FISH’s food programs can make a meaningful difference in both health and peace of mind. Ensuring access to healthy food helps neighbors feel supported and better prepared for whatever comes next.
For more information about FISH’s food programs, contact Merari Puente at merari@fishofsancap.org.
