Holiday Gift Program brings joy to families
Thanks to support from the United Way’s Gifts In-Kind and other community donations, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva’s Holiday Gift Program brought joy to 359 children this year. Each child received four toys and a board game to share with their family.
FISH reported that the smiles and gratitude from families were heartwarming. Parents shared how the program made a huge difference during challenging times. For some, this was the first time that they felt hope in a long time. Many are still recovering from Hurricane Ian and, more recently, Helene and Milton, along with ongoing financial challenges.
“With everything we’ve been through this year, I didn’t think I’d be able to give my kids any gifts,” one parent shared. “FISH and United Way made that possible, and it means the world to us.”
Another mother shared that she cried “tears of joy” watching her children open gifts on Christmas morning and how happy everyone was playing multiple rounds of Scrabble. She also thanked FISH for the holiday meal basket and shared how normal it felt to be cooking for her family, despite ongoing storm repairs to her home.
“We are deeply grateful to United Way Gifts In-Kind and all our supporters for helping us deliver holiday joy,” Community Outreach Manager Merari Salinas said. “Together, we continue to stand with our neighbors, ensuring brighter days ahead for those who live and work on Sanibel and Captiva.”
For more information about FISH, visit www.fishofsancap.org.