Community Foundation Of Sarasota Supports Hurricane-Impacted Families

Cecila Grove and her daughter Aria Grove sit outside their home Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Sarasota, Fla., next to limbs from a tree that fell durring the recent hurricanes. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)

Cecilia Grove faced financial hardship after being unable to work for 38 days due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in Siesta Key, Florida. As a single mother caring for her daughter with special needs and her father, Grove struggled to make ends meet after exhausting her savings on essential expenses. Fortunately, she received assistance from Season of Sharing, a Sarasota-based program that helps households in crisis situations.

Following the hurricanes that hit the Gulf Coast, many families experienced economic challenges beyond property damage. Low- and moderate-income households were particularly vulnerable, lacking savings to cope with the financial impact of the disasters. Programs like Season of Sharing play a crucial role in providing support to those in need during difficult times.

Season of Sharing offers assistance with housing, transportation, childcare, and utilities, helping families cover essential expenses and avoid falling into debt. The program, founded 25 years ago, has been instrumental in aiding individuals and families facing financial crises, especially during the recent hurricane season.

Season of Sharing assists low- and moderate-income households with essential expenses.

Single mother Cecilia Grove faced financial hardship after hurricanes in Siesta Key.

Program offers support with housing, transportation, childcare, and utilities.

Grove received rent assistance to pursue a stable career as an X-ray technician.

Community foundations like Sarasota's play a vital role in aiding vulnerable households.

For Grove, the rent assistance provided by Season of Sharing allowed her to pursue her goal of transitioning to a more stable career. With the support received, she is working towards becoming an X-ray technician, focusing on her education and securing a better future for her family.

Despite the challenges faced by economically vulnerable households after disasters, community foundations like the one in Sarasota continue to step in to fill gaps in assistance programs. Through fundraising efforts and generous donations, these foundations ensure that individuals in need receive the help required to rebuild their lives.

As communities recover from the impact of the hurricanes, it is essential for individuals to seek and accept support from available programs. Grove encourages others facing financial difficulties to reach out for assistance, emphasizing the importance of accepting help during challenging times.