FISH of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it is seeing a significant increase in families turning to its Youth Backpack Program — an after-school and weekend food program that provides easy-to-prepare meals and snacks for children whose families live or work on the islands.
While need has steadily grown this year, the most recent surge follows changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Many households have seen their benefits reduced or delayed, leaving parents scrambling to stretch limited food budgets. For families already managing high cost of living and ongoing hurricane recovery challenges, even small reductions in SNAP support can make daily life more challenging.
“Families who were just barely managing before are now struggling more than ever, some because of SNAP reductions, others due to lack of work hours or cost of living expenses. The Backpack Program gives kids the comfort of knowing they’ll have something to eat after school and during the weekend,” Food Programs Manager Merari Salinas said. “From time to time, we’re even able to add small treats as a fun gesture during holidays or special days — like the ‘boo bags’ we included for Halloween that the kids absolutely loved.”
FISH reported that the program helps fill those gaps, ensuring children have reliable access to food they enjoy and can prepare on their own — especially on weekends, school holidays or when caregivers are working long hours. Research consistently shows that children facing food insecurity are more likely to struggle in school, have difficulty focusing and miss more classroom time. Something as simple as having a stocked backpack for the weekend can make all the difference.
The program is partially funded by grants and community support. FISH extended its thanks to the Lee County Bar Association, Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Foundation, Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club and Suncoast Credit Union for helping to keep the backpacks filled.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our grantors and donors who make this program possible. Their support helps us give kids the nourishment they need and gives parents a little breathing room during difficult times,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said. “This community shows again and again that it takes care of each other, and we couldn’t do this work without them.”
For more information, visit www.fishofsancap.org or call 239-472-4775.