Sanibel farmers market assists F.I.S.H for new season
Annually, the Sanibel Island Farmers Market — hosted by Local Roots owners Betsy Ventura and Jean Baer — coordinates with F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva to provide fresh products for the food pantry.
At the recommendation of Local Roots, vendors pack boxes of unsold fruits, vegetables and goodies. At the end of every market, F.I.S.H. volunteers pick up, sort and stock donated items at the pantry. Participating vendors include European Bakery, operated by the Foerschner family; Straight From NY York Bagels, operated by the Sexton family; and Aurora’s Produce, operated by the Zuniga family.
New this year, F.I.S.H. and various vendors worked together to provide a fall-themed Smile Box to island seniors. Vendors donated and provided reduced cost items such as soap, pears, mini pumpkins, bread, candles, honey, jam, and beet and okra chips, all tucked into a farmers market reusable bag.
“F.I.S.H. and our neighbors greatly appreciate the generosity of the farmers market. We cannot thank Betsy, Jean and the generous vendors enough for helping supply healthy choices for those that use our pantry, and again for suppling items for our Smile Boxes. The continued support from the farmers market and their eagerness to help is an integral part of our success,” Assistant Executive Director Maria Espinoza said. “We also are so appreciative of our volunteer teams who pick up from the market and organize our food pantry on Sunday afternoons. We could not provide these wonderful products to our community without their help.”
Last month, a Welcome Fall Harvest theme was offered and the Sanibel Island Farmers Market and its vendors stepped in to contribute items. The participants included Paradise Candle and Soap Co., House of Nuts, Aurora’s Produce, European Bakery, and the Sanibel farmers market booth for Local Roots.
The market is held on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sanibel City Hall, at 800 Dunlop Road.