Gulf Coast Community Foundation Delivers Hurricane Ian Relief

October 28, 2022 – Sarasota

GCCF is thrilled to share that in just three weeks, together with generous donors, they have provided over $1 million in Hurricane Ian relief. Below, you’ll learn about some of these incredible stories as we rescue, recover, and rebuild together.

Regional Support
YMCA of Southwest Florida received a $100,000 grant for emergency care for children and families impacted by the storm in south Sarasota County and Charlotte County. The photo shows the thankfulness for the YMCA’s actions including their Community Relief Camp, community outreach, and food distribution efforts. The Y has started emergency, free childcare, community hubs open to all, and other ramped-up relief efforts.

Transforming Together
Awaken Church of North Port received a $10,000 grant to assist their North Port Food Pantry. The church runs a full-time food pantry in partnership with All Faiths Food Bank and has been providing the community with hundreds of hot meals, in collaboration with Laurel Civic. The relief funds will help this life-sustaining pantry to provide tents, tables, coolers, utility carts, bags, and more to community members who need it most.

Helping Children and Families
Children First, who serve children of the highest need very early in their lives, was awarded a $50,000 grant to support the basic needs of families and staff impacted by Hurricane Ian. Their reaction: “Tears of happiness. Words cannot express our deep appreciation for your support.” The photo was taken during a distribution for families and staff made possible by support from the grant and other community partners.

Nutrition, Hope, and Dignity
Mayors Feed the Hungry received a $10,000 grant for gift cards for food for families impacted by Hurricane Ian. The program coordinates with 34 nonprofit agencies that span North Port, Englewood, Venice, and more of the Gulf Coast region. Together the network provides food and grocery gift cards to local households facing food insecurity. The amount of individuals and families in need of gift cards skyrocketed after the hurricane. Gift cards mean participants can purchase the foods they like and know how to prepare, which brings an important touch of hope during this difficult time.