FISH OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA
\nFISH of Sanibel-Captiva volunteers at the food pantry.<\/p>\n
At 60 years old, living alone and facing unexpected health issues, one local neighbor never imagined she would need to rely on a food pantry. But after losing her job and employer-provided health insurance, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva\u2019s food pantry has helped her stay on her feet in a challenging time.<\/p>\n
She visits the pantry about once a month, though there have been times when she has needed to come more frequently. According to FISH, what she values most is that it operates as a choice pantry, allowing neighbors to select items that meet their needs and personal preferences.<\/p>\n
According to Feeding America\u2019s \u201cMap the Meal Gap\u201d study, an estimated one in 12 seniors in Lee County face food insecurity. Rising housing costs, medical expenses and limited employment options can quickly put older adults in a difficult position, and FISH \u2014 a United Way resiliency hub serving Sanibel and Captiva \u2014 has seen this firsthand.<\/p>\n
\u201cMore and more, we\u2019re seeing seniors who are still trying to work but can\u2019t find employment that fits their abilities. When something unexpected happens \u2014 like a job loss or medical issue \u2014 it can turn their world upside down,\u201d Food Programs Manager Merari Puente said. \u201cOur goal is to make sure no one has to choose between buying groceries and paying for medicine.\u201d<\/p>\n
FISH reported that through its food pantry and other food programs, it helps ease the pressure individuals and families feel when budgets are stretched thin.<\/p>\n
The food pantry program is supported, in part, through grant funding provided by The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation, along with private donors, community members who participate in \u201cbuy one, give one\u201d efforts, and local food drives that keep the shelves stocked throughout the year.<\/p>\n
For more information, visit www.fishofsancap.org<\/a> or contact 239-472-4775.<\/p>\n