provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The FISH of SanCap Hurricane Preparedness Packet will be available soon, as the 2026 storm season is near. The packet is being updated to include information on preparation, evacuation, checklists, shelter information, and resources for seniors and vulnerable residents.
“Our community knows firsthand how quickly conditions can change,” said Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director, who oversees the Hurricane Preparedness program. “We want people to feel informed, prepared, and connected to reliable information before a storm approaches.”
During storm events, FISH works closely with local and regional partners to help distribute emergency supplies, including food, water, tarps, and other essential items. The organization also assists vulnerable residents with preparedness planning, evacuation support, and post-storm recovery efforts.
As part of those efforts, FISH is finalizing its updated Hurricane Preparedness Packet for the 2026 season.
The updated preparedness packet includes information on:
· Preparing homes ahead of a storm
· Evacuation routes and planning
· Emergency supply checklists
· Lee County shelter information, including pet-friendly shelters
· Area hotels, including those with generator access
· Resources for seniors and vulnerable populations
“The packet includes information people truly use and refer back to throughout the season,” added Arnowitz. “It continues to be one of the most requested resources we provide.”
Also expanding this year is the Neighbors in Readiness program, led by Simon Robson, FISH Community Outreach and Resiliency Director. The program shares simple, manageable preparedness tips throughout the year to help residents stay informed and ready for emergencies.
Monthly resources include preparedness reminders, safety information, seasonal guidance, and children’s activities focused on emergency readiness. The goal is to make preparedness feel approachable and achievable for households of all sizes and living situations.
Neighbors in Readiness is supported through grant funding from the American Red Cross. Funding supports ongoing research, collaboration, and community education efforts related to disaster preparedness and resiliency.
FISH also continues to work directly with vulnerable residents to help develop evacuation plans and maintain communication with out-of-town family members during emergencies. Their volunteer Hurricane Committee remains an important part of these efforts before, during, and after storms.
Key partners before, during, and after a storm include United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades; Lee County Emergency Management; the City of Sanibel; and others, helping ensure the community has access to reliable information, support, and resources throughout hurricane season.
To learn more about FISH programs or support their mission, contact Executive Director Maria Espinoza.
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