FISH OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA
\nFrom left, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva team member Kim Baker and Food Programs Manager Merari Salinas at the food pantry.<\/p>\n
Following its recent plea regarding the uncertainty surrounding federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva shared a hopeful update.<\/p>\n
Thanks to a grant from The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation, the food pantry has been able to stay well-stocked and ready to support island workers and residents who are feeling the strain.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis grant from The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation couldn\u2019t have come at a better time,\u201d Executive Director Maria Espinoza said on Nov. 20. \u201cTheir support helps us keep our shelves full so families don\u2019t have to choose between groceries and other essentials.\u201d<\/p>\n
FISH also extended its gratitude to all the donors who responded to its plea for assistance, as well as the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, SanCap Resilience Steering Committee and others who helped share the message throughout their networks.<\/p>\n
FISH reported that many families who rely on SNAP remain unsure whether their monthly benefits will arrive on time \u2014 or at all. With the islands still quiet and many seasonal residents not yet back, donations have been slower than usual, even as need continues to grow. The weeks leading into the holidays can be especially difficult for households already trying to stretch limited budgets.<\/p>\n
As SNAP benefit changes continue and the holidays approach, FISH remains focused on making sure every household that lives or works on Sanibel and Captiva can access healthy, reliable food \u2014 especially during a season that can feel particularly heavy for those struggling quietly behind the scenes. It will also continue monitoring the SNAP situation closely, while preparing for the possibility of a prolonged increase in need.<\/p>\n
Community members who would like to help can donate food, grocery store gift cards or financial contributions to support FISH\u2019s ongoing food pantry operations. For drop-off information or questions about current needs, contact Food Programs Manager Merari Salinas at merari@fishofsancap.org.<\/p>\n
For more information about FISH, visit www.fishofsancap.org<\/a> or call 239-472-4775.<\/p>\n