August, 2015 F.I.S.H. Upgrades Food Pantry

At F.I.S.H., our Food Pantry usage increases year to year. F.I.S.H. is committed to making sure that our neighbors in need can get food in a dignified manner through our "Choice Food Pantry", and in a way that serves as a real safety net for those who fall on difficult times. F.I.S.H. is committed to reducing

the effects that food insecurity has on our clients and our community. Our newly upgraded commercial refrigerator and freezer capacity means that more broccoli, carrots, milk and other fresh items will be available for families in need. Maggi Feiner, President & CEO at F.I.S.H., is particularly excited about the commercial refrigeration and said, “Knowing we can stock more refrigerated and frozen products for direct distribution is a great benefit to those we serve. The new refrigerator and freezer is going to change lives here.”

‘Undie Sunday’ at Captiva Chapel By The Sea

Each year, the Missions and Outreach Committee from the Captiva Chapel by the Sea visits F.I.S.H. OF SANCAP, one of Chapel's outreach agencies. It was during this visit that Maggi Feiner shared how hard it is for children to go back to school without proper clothing, even underwear and socks. Chapel goers responded by creating ‘Undie Sunday’ and giving generously to the fund!

When children return to school later this month, many will arrive in the comfort of new socks and undies, with a secret smile of gratitude for F.I.S.H. and Captiva Chapel by the Sea.

Left to right, Diane Fugit, Kathy Morris, MaryAnn

Bell, Nancy Roach, Susen Berg Kathy Morris

Back to School time! Lee county students will return to school on Mon. Aug. 24th! As the kids get back into the swing of school, it's important to keep traffic safety in mind. Drivers should remember that as the new school year begins, kids will be walking, crossing streets and waiting for busses on the side of the road. Please keep an extra eye out for our island students!

August, 2015

Upcoming Workshops and Events

Friendly Faces Lunch Tues. Aug. 11th, 11:30 a.m. @George & Wendy's Corner Grille. A great was to stay connected to your community! $8/ person, all inclusive. RSVP to Sally Ennis or 239-395-8821. Exact cash requested. Rebuilding Your Credit Tues. Aug. 11th, 6:00 p.m.—7:30 p.m. @FISH Walk-In Center. Facilitated by Cheryl McConahy, Manager, Fifth Third Bank Medicare Open Enrollment Information Session Wed. Sep. 9th, 10:00 a.m.—11:30 a.m. @FISH Walk-In Center. Offered by the Dept. of Elder Affairs. This is a group overview with information for seniors regarding new program choices

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Friends Who Care Help With Back-To-School Supplies

Food Pantry Needs As summer continues, the F.I.S.H. OF SANCAP Food Pantry always sees an increase in demand. "Many have their hours cut back because the off-season need for employees decreases. That, combined with the fact that children are out of school, brings more clients to our Food Pantry to fill the gap," said Christine Swiersz, L.C.S.W, Program Director. “The demand for the Food Pantry is much higher in the summer months, and we find it difficult to keep it well stocked during this time.” Anyone wishing to help is welcome to bring food items to the Walk-In Center, Bailey’s General Store or Bank of the Islands. The Food Pantry is particularly in need of canned fruit, mayonnaise, cereal, ketchup, juice, “kid friendly” snacks and Boost and Ensure drinks. We also accept unopened non-food items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, paper towels, toilet paper, laun-dry detergent, cleaning products, pet food, sun block, etc. The Food Pantry accepts frozen/refrigerated items such as meats, fish, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, juices, etc., and is always in need of dairy products, particularly milk. These items need to be brought to the FISH Walk-In Center during their hours of operation: Mon.—Fri. from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Through a valuable partnership with Friends Who Care, FISH is able to refer families who may need a little extra assistance with school supply purchases. Yearly, the two groups work together to identify back to school supply needs of our island youth. Each family will receive a gift card from Friends Who Care so that no child goes to school without the necessary tools to succeed!

Thank you Friends Who Care!