Needs increase when ‘season’ is over
For some islanders, summer is a time to relax following the myriad of activities that occur during “Season.” For most of our hands-on charitable organizations, however, it becomes even busier. This includes FISH (Fellow Islanders Sending Help, Inc.). The lower employment rate during off-season, higher utility bills due to the heat, additional child care expenses when school is not in session, and additional needs for off-island transportation for medical appointments when friendly seasonable neighbors are not available; all have an adverse affect and increase the requests for assistance.
During the first five months of this year (Jan. 1 through May 31), FISH responded to 518 telephone calls. Many were for transportation, loan of medical mobility equipment, or requests for respite for primary caregivers. Seventy requests were for financial assistance, to include housing expenses, utilities, medical prescriptions, minor auto repairs or gasoline, and a few others that we place in a “miscellaneous” category. FISH responds to financial requests only in emergency situations, and usually only once in a 12-month period. In those instances where we cannot assist, every attempt is made to direct clients to other sources where they may find the necessary help.
The FISH medical mobility storage unit has a wide variety of equipment in excellent condition that may be loaned to anyone who has the need. We urge our fellow islanders to make use of this service, if possible, rather than paying for the equipment through their insurance or Medicare coverage.
Lastly, we’re pleased to announce that FISH now has a website: pineislandfish.org. It’s still in its infancy, but growing every day, so we’re inviting Eagle readers to visit the site and provide comments or recommendations. Many thanks to Phil Rosenberg for leading us through the process.
FISH is always grateful for additional volunteers and, of course, donations. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 357, Matlacha 33993 and phone number is 283-4442.