Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts – How the Floral Industry is Stepping Up to Help

Hurricane Helene has devastated communities across the south this past week and the floral industry is uniting to support those in need. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this disaster. We've compiled valuable resources to assist those seeking help and those wishing to contribute. From donation drives to coordinated relief efforts, there are many ways to offer support to the individuals and businesses affected by this powerful storm.

The Impact of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene landed in late September, leaving a path of destruction across Florida’s west coast and moving through the Carolinas and Tennessee. The storm caused severe flooding, wind damage, and power outages, affecting individuals and local businesses, including florists.

In response, the floral community has united, spearheading relief efforts to support florists in rebuilding their livelihoods.

Florida's Relief Efforts

The Florida State Florist Association (FSFA) has been at the forefront, organizing vital relief initiatives for florists and their communities. Their coordination of donation drives and drop-off locations throughout Florida has allowed florists and supporters to contribute supplies that will directly aid those hardest hit by the storm.

Here are a few key locations collecting supplies for Hurricane Helene relief:

Kennicott Tampa

Kennicott Tampa has opened its doors to collect donations for Helene relief supplies. Florists and community members can drop off donations at their Tampa location, or if you're a Kennicott customer, they’ll pick up your donations along with your regular orders.

  • Drop-off location:
    2708 E Hanna Ave, Tampa, FL 33610
    Monday - Friday, 7 AM to 2 PM
  • Items needed:
    Water, non-perishable food items, hygiene products (personal and female hygiene products), towels, soap, toothpaste, wipes.

Kuhn Flowers - Jacksonville, FL

Kuhn Flowers in Jacksonville is another key location accepting donations before October 4. They are also providing an Amazon wishlist for convenient online donations.

  • Drop-off location:
    Kuhn Flowers
    3802 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
    Before 10/4
  • Amazon Wishlist: Link here
    Items needed:
    Water, non-perishable food items, hygiene products, towels, soap, toothpaste, wipes, medication (Tylenol, ibuprofen, aspirin), first aid kits, bug spray, candles, flashlights, batteries, sunscreen, trash bags, cleaning supplies, lightweight blankets, new wearables.

De La Flor Florist & Gardens - Cooper City, FL

De La Flor Florist & Gardens will be collecting donations from September 30 to October 4. They will personally deliver these supplies to the Florida Panhandle, which was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene.

  • Drop-off location:
    10781 Stirling Road, Cooper City, FL 33328
    Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Items needed:
    Water, non-perishable food items, hygiene products, towels, soap, toothpaste, wipes, medication, bug spray, candles, flashlights, batteries, sunscreen, trash bags, cleaning supplies, lightweight blankets, and new wearables.

FSFAI CARES Relief Fund

The Florida State Florist Association International (FSFAI) has also set up a "CARES" relief fund to provide direct support to florists and their families affected by Hurricane Helene. One hundred percent of donations go directly to FSFA members in need, helping them rebuild as quickly as possible.

You can make cash donations to the FSFAI CARES fund by visiting this link.

How You Can Help

There are many ways to get involved in the relief efforts:

  • Donate Supplies: Visit one of the drop-off locations listed above or order items via the Amazon wishlist for Kuhn Flowers.
  • Financial Contributions: Contribute to the FSFAI CARES fund to help florists rebuild their businesses.
  • Spread the Word: Share information about the relief efforts on social media to raise awareness and encourage others to participate.

Relief Assistance Through FEMA

In addition to the support provided by the floral industry, individuals and businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene can access a wide range of federal relief resources through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA has set up a dedicated page for Hurricane Helene relief efforts, listing every state affected by the storm, including Florida, the Carolinas, and Tennessee.

By visiting FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Disaster Page, you can find crucial information on:

  • Financial Assistance: Apply for grants to cover expenses such as temporary housing, home repairs, and other critical needs not covered by insurance.
  • Disaster Recovery Centers: Locate centers in your area offering in-person assistance for applying for aid and getting updates on your application status.
  • Business Recovery: Access resources aimed at helping small businesses, including florists, recover and get back on their feet after the storm.
  • Immediate Needs: Find information about food, shelter, medical assistance, and other urgent resources in your state.

FEMA’s website provides step-by-step guidance on how to apply for aid, what documentation is needed, and the deadlines for assistance requests. For those affected by Hurricane Helene, it is a vital resource for navigating recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Hurricane Helene has had a devastating impact, but with the support of compassionate individuals across the country, we can help those affected recover and rebuild. Every donation, whether large or small, makes a difference!

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