anibel Island’s spirit of resilience and community generosity is stepping into the spotlight. Running from July 27 through August 2, 2026, the island’s popular grassroots campaign enters Week 9 under the meaningful theme of “Give Back Week.”
Residents, seasonal visitors, and local supporters are invited to rally together to assist island workers, families, and neighbors facing ongoing challenges, while simultaneously supporting the local merchants who continue to invest in Sanibel’s vibrant future.
At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that a strong community is built on mutual support and care. The non-profits and local workforce that keep Sanibel running are integral to what makes our island such a wonderful place to live, work, and invest.
In a nutshell: Week 9 focuses on collecting essential non-perishable foods and household supplies for F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva and Community Housing & Resources (CHR), alongside a campaign-wide push to shop local.
Essential Needs: What and Where to Donate
Organizers have outlined specific donation wishlists for both organizations to directly address the daily needs of island families, workforce members, and CHR residents.
WEEK 9 DONATION WISHLIST GUIDE
[ F.I.S.H. SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ]
• Non-perishable food: Pasta, PB&J, flour, oil, condiments & cereal
• Essentials: Paper towels, toilet paper & hygiene pads
• Pet supplies: Dry and wet pet food
[ COMMUNITY HOUSING & RESOURCES (CHR) ]
• Home goods: Kitchen items, towels, cleaning supplies & doormats
• Educational: Shell and bird guides
• Local support: Gift cards to island retail shops and restaurants
Collection boxes will be set up directly at FISH, CHR, and various designated drop-off points throughout the island commercial districts.
Support Island Businesses & Spread the Word
Alongside the donation drives, “Give Back Week” places a strong emphasis on sustained economic support for local merchants. Buying a meal at an island restaurant, shopping at a local boutique, or purchasing retail gift cards for CHR residents creates a double-impact way to support the island economy.
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Share the Movement: Participants are encouraged to post photos of their donation deliveries, shopping trips, or volunteer efforts on social media using the official hashtag #LoveSanibelBack to inspire others across the region to join in.
A Collaborative Island Initiative
Running through August, the overall Love Sanibel Back master campaign operates under the 2026 summer theme: “Buy Local — Spread Joy — Give Back.” The initiative brings together over 75 participating businesses, community sponsors, and local organizations. It is hosted by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, in partnership with the City of Sanibel and the SanCap Chamber.
To view the complete list of drop-off box locations and explore upcoming weekly events, visit the official Saint Michael’s Love Sanibel Back Portal. Let’s unite to support our neighbors and keep Sanibel thriving!
