With hurricane season approaching, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it is once again helping island residents, workers and families prepare ahead of potential storms.<\/p>\n
As a United Way Resiliency Hub, it provides daily support through its various program and more, while also serving as a critical resource during disasters and community emergencies.<\/p>\n
During storm events, FISH works closely with local and regional partners to help distribute emergency supplies, including food, water, tarps and other essential items. It also assists vulnerable residents with preparedness planning, evacuation support and post-storm recovery efforts.<\/p>\n
As part of those efforts, FISH is finalizing its updated Hurricane Preparedness Packet for 2026.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur community knows firsthand how quickly conditions can change,\u201d Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz, who oversees the Hurricane Preparedness program, said. \u201cWe want people to feel informed, prepared and connected to reliable information before a storm approaches.\u201d<\/p>\n
The updated packet will include information on:<\/p>\n
\u2013 Preparing homes ahead of a storm<\/p>\n
\u2013 Evacuation routes and planning<\/p>\n
\u2013 Emergency supply checklists<\/p>\n
\u2013 Lee County shelter information, including pet-friendly shelters<\/p>\n
\u2013 Area hotels, including those with generator access<\/p>\n
\u2013 Resources for seniors and vulnerable populations<\/p>\n
\u201cThe packet includes information people truly use and refer back to throughout the season,\u201d she said. \u201cIt continues to be one of the most requested resources we provide.\u201d<\/p>\n
Also expanding this year is FISH\u2019s Neighbors in Readiness program, which shares simple, manageable preparedness tips throughout the year to help residents stay informed and ready before emergencies happen. Monthly resources include preparedness reminders, safety information, seasonal guidance and children\u2019s activities focused on emergency readiness.<\/p>\n
Neighbors in Readiness is supported through grant funding from the American Red Cross.<\/p>\n
In addition, FISH continues to work directly with vulnerable residents to help develop evacuation plans and maintain communication with out-of-town family members during emergencies. Its volunteer Hurricane Committee remains an important part of the efforts before, during and after a storm.<\/p>\n
Key partners before, during and after a storm include the city of Sanibel, Lee County Emergency Management, United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades and others.<\/p>\n