ZORA’S FISH BANK
ZORA’S FISH BANK is about making sure families have access to healthy, safe food without stress or judgment. We’re giving away Black Sea Bass from Zora’s to families who need a good, nourishing meal. This happens every Thursday & Friday from 10:30am to 7pm, as long as we have fish available. The fish come from a limited supply of fresh Black Sea Bass raised by the UNCW Aquaculture Facility, so once we run out for the day, that’s it.
Signing up is simple. You just need to stop by Zora’s and put your name down. There are no complicated forms or hoops to jump through. Depending on the size of the fish, we aim to provide two fish for a family of four, which usually works out to one good-sized fillet per person. We’ll also cut the fish the way that works best for you. If you want it whole for frying, we can do that. If you prefer fillets for poaching, baking, or pan-searing, that’s no problem. Black Sea Bass is incredibly versatile. You can grill it with a little oil and lemon, bread it and bake or fry it, blacken it in a pan for bold flavor, stuff it with herbs and vegetables, or gently poach it for a soft, mild meal that’s easy for kids and elders to enjoy. However you like to cook for your family, this fish fits right in.
This program is especially meant for families who fish to help feed their households, families who may be fishing in waters where pollution is a real concern, and families who simply want a fresh, healthy, and safe fish meal. Many people rely on local fishing, but not all waters are clean. Polluted water can contain heavy metals, chemicals, fuel residue, bacteria, and other contaminants that build up in fish over time. These pollutants can be hard to see and impossible to taste, but they can affect health, especially for children, pregnant people, and elders. Eating fish from contaminated water over time can increase the risk of developmental issues, immune problems, and other long-term health concerns. Wanting to protect your family while still putting food on the table is completely understandable, and that’s exactly why this fish is here for you.
What makes this Black Sea Bass different is how it was raised. These fish were grown in clean, carefully controlled tanks, not in open waters where pollution can enter the food chain. The water quality is monitored, the fish are tested, and their environment is managed with care. That means no exposure to unsafe pollution and no guessing about where your food came from. This fish is raised with science, responsibility, and respect for the people who will be eating it.
Black Sea Bass is also a wonderful choice nutritionally. It’s high in protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle and overall health. It’s rich in important nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health, heart health, and immune function. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet, making it approachable for kids, while still being satisfying for adults. Because it’s fresh and responsibly raised, it’s a fish you can feel confident serving to your whole family.
Getting a fish is straightforward. You SIGN UP at Zora’s, come by on a Wednesday 10:30-7pm for PICK UP Thursday or Friday between 11am and 7pm. Two fish per pick up. We recommend keeping an eye on Instagram for updates, since availability depends on supply and we may run out for the day.
At the end of the day, this is about dignity, health, and care. A healthy meal should not be hard to find, and it should never come with worry about safety. That’s what Zora’s Fish Bank is here for.
