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FISH OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva partners year-round with local first responders, like the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and Captiva Island Fire Control District.
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FISH OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva partners year-round with local first responders, like the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and Captiva Island Fire Control District.
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FISH of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it has long worked side by side with first responders, standing together through hurricanes, emergencies and community celebrations. From delivering food and supplies in storm recovery, to partnering at family-friendly events, the collaborations are built on a shared goal of protecting and caring for island neighbors.
Oct. 28 marked National First Responders Day, a time to recognize and thank the men and women who serve on the frontlines to keep communities safe. Established by Congress in 2019, it honors the vital service of police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and 911 dispatchers, while also remembering those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
On the islands, FISH partners closely with the Sanibel Police Department, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, Captiva Island Fire Control District, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Management, Public Works and other agencies to assist residents and workforce members when a disaster strikes.
It noted that in addition to emergencies, the Sanibel police leads community workshops on topics such as safety, scams, and personal and home protection. The Sanibel fire district engages youths through Camp Noah. The Captiva fire district lends support during community gatherings such as JOG N JAM, while the county sheriff’s office has partnered with FISH in the past to provide educational workshops.
“FISH could not do this work alone,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said. “In grey skies, when storms or emergencies disrupt daily life, our partnerships with trusted responders are essential to ensuring neighbors have the safety, support and resources they need. And in blue skies, when the community gathers for celebrations like JOG N JAM or youth programs such as Camp Noah, those same partnerships remind us that working together strengthens our islands in every season.”
FISH invites the community to join it in thanking the dedicated individuals for their courage, service and unwavering commitment to keeping everyone safe — through every storm and every season.