provided to The Santiva Chronicle
FISH of SANCAP is there to help with an array of services and a network of support when everyday struggles become overwhelming. Rebecca, a client whose name has been changed for privacy, speaks about her recent involvement with the organization.
It started with Rebecca’s move from Cape Coral to Sanibel Island. “Moving was a dream,” she said, “but it came with challenges.” She didn’t know how she would manage the move, but FISH came with volunteer movers and a truck, which gave her a sense of relief.
“They made something that felt impossible, possible,” said Rebecca.
Once she settled on the island, Rebecca turned her attention to continuing her education. However, the costs quickly became overwhelming. “I wanted so badly to keep going, but between tuition and materials, I couldn’t see how I could afford it,” she said.
FISH helped with the expenses, but as she began to find her footing, Rebecca started to feel the stress of everyday expenses again. FISH provided rental assistance, which gave her breathing room.
“Thanks to FISH, I was able to pay my rent and finally have some room to catch my breath after being in a financial hole for a few months.”
Today, with the immediate crisis behind her, she’s beginning to look ahead with optimism. “Now I feel like I can finally look forward instead of just trying to survive each day,” she said. “I’m hopeful again about the future, and that’s something I didn’t think I’d feel for a long time.”
FISH provides this type of support — and so much more — because of its dedicated partners. The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation helps sustain the Rent Financial Assistance program, ensuring neighbors can remain safe and housed.
The Zonta Foundation of Southwest Florida supports the continuing education program, giving women a chance to reach new goals and build brighter futures.
Together with countless donors and volunteers, these partners form the wraparound safety net that makes stories like hers possible. With their support, FISH remains a steady resource for islanders — offering help today and hope for tomorrow.
“Our wraparound approach is what makes FISH unique,” says FISH Social Services Director Nitza Lopez. “It’s not just one program or one type of help — it’s the way everything connects. Rent assistance, education, food, and emotional support all come together to give people the chance to find their way.”