By: Jessica Vinton (Nonprofit Jess)
I recently came across a nonprofit organization that is doing something incredibly unique to serve their community. Fillet for Friends, located in Boca Raton, Florida, began in 2014 when best friends and avid fishermen, Harrison and Maccabee, faced a problem after each fishing trip. “What should we do with all this extra fish?” Wanting to use their talent for good, they decided to reach out to local food banks to see if they could combine their passion and success in fishing with taking care of their community. And Fillet for Friends was born. Since then, they have been providing nutritious and delicious fish for meals served by local food banks throughout Florida. Their volunteers work tirelessly to carry out their mission of “Providing Meals on Reels.” After collecting the fish through various programs, the Fillet for Friends team cleans, fillets, vacuum seals, and donates the fresh fish to the food banks. And their organization is growing. Anglers throughout the state can contact Fillet for Friends and they will come and pick up their catches to prepare and donate. They are being recognized for their great work by renowned fishermen and local newspapers, which is helping to reach their limitless goal of helping as many hungry citizens as possible. To date, fish collections from tournaments across the state have totaled over 3,300 pounds, and one food bank receiving their donations said they are helping to provide 4,500 meals per year! I encourage you to visit their website at filletforfriends.org to learn more about their work and follow them on Facebook at @filletforfriends to stay connected.
