Five ways to help Hurricane Helene recovery efforts
If you’re searching for a way to give back to your community, the Catalyst’s Impact Connector is here to help. Each week, we feature five organizations in the Tampa Bay area that need your input, whether that’s time, talent, items, funding or simply awareness. This week, we’re sharing a special edition aimed at helping connect you with relief and recovery efforts following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Donate to the Tampa Bay Resiliency Fund
Roofing help needed at Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay
Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, a nonprofit that provides no-cost repairs to homeowners, is working to mobilize its teams of staff and volunteers to provide critical relief and response services. Jose Garcia, CEO of Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, told the Catalyst they are creating cleanup packets that they plan to distribute next week. In the meantime, the nonprofit is focusing on roof repairs to ensure the immediate safety of homeowners.
Garcia said if any volunteers are able and willing to help with roof repairs, they should call the nonprofit at 813-878-9000 or email info@rttb.org.
Photo: Cherie Okie Leal, Facebook.
Relief donations needed in Gulfport
The Gulfport Merchants Chamber is inviting community members to participate in relief efforts aimed at supporting local businesses and residents. In the coming days and months, the group said it will be organizing a variety of events, including clean-up initiatives and other forms of assistance.
In addition to volunteer opportunities, they are collecting cleaning supplies to aid clean-up efforts. The following items are needed: Fans, squeegees, mops, buckets, shop vacuums, rubber gloves, extension cords, old towels, trash bags, liquid concentrate and disinfectant.
Donations can be dropped off at the Village Courtyard shopping mall, 2902 Beach Blvd. S., and The North End Taphouse & Kitchen, 2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S.
For those interested in volunteering, email info@visitgulfportflorida.com.
Photo: Cherie Okie Leal, Facebook.
Volunteers for animal transports needed
Pupactive, a dog-centric clothing company in St. Petersburg, has offered to aid animal rescue groups in Pinellas County that need help with animal and shelter transportation. If you are able to volunteer your time and personal vehicle, text Pupactive’s founder Lara at 727-492-7238.
Many animal rescues are also seeking help with donations of items as they work to care for pets impacted by the storm. Runaways Animal Rescue in Port Richey has a list of items needed here.
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Items and volunteers needed
The nonprofit Reach St. Pete is collecting supplies to distribute to residents in Pinellas County. They are also asking for volunteers willing to help or donate.
Examples of supplies needed include water, food, household supplies, paper towels, towels, mops, fans and charger stations. To donate or if you know someone in need of supplies, send a message to the Reach St. Pete Facebook page.
If you are able to volunteer your time, call Reach St. Pete at 727-275-8655 or email Info@reachstpete.org.
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By engaging in these five impactful ways to give back, we can empower our communities and contribute to a more compassionate society. If your organization is seeking volunteers, donations or awareness, click here to submit your opportunity. We’ll get the word out to our readers.
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