Hurricane Ian: Disaster Relief Update 1

Zuram Rodriguez surveys the damage around her home in Davie, Florida, from winds believed to be fueled by Hurricane Ian early on Wednesday. Credit: Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP

Dear Friend,

Hurricane Ian is expected to make landfall this afternoon in Southwest Florida. It is currently a very high Category 4 hurricane with winds reaching 155 mph with 20” or more of rain. The National Hurricane Center has warned of “life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds and flooding in the Florida Peninsula", with millions under evacuation orders. Significant river flooding is likely across central Florida with hurricane conditions hitting Florida’s west coast Wednesday into Thursday. Georgia and South Carolina are also anticipating significant rain and flooding later this week.

Owners board their Gulf Bistro Restaurant in St. Pete Beach Florida in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Ian. on Tuesday. Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Inspiritus’ disaster teams are currently staging in Georgia and preparing to respond where needed. While it is not yet clear precisely where Ian will land ashore, Inspiritus staff has been in touch with local officials and partnering organizations in Florida and Georgia to coordinate our efforts as quickly and efficiently as possible. In the coming days, we will share more information about the storm’s impact and how Inspiritus is helping.

Photo: Damage is seen at the Kings Point condos in Delray Beach, Florida, on Wednesday. Officials believe it was caused by a tornado fueled by Hurricane Ian. Credit: Greg Lovett/The Palm Beach Post/USA Today Network

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE

Donate to Inspiritus: The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help homeowners impacted by the Hurricane. Your support will provide free debris removal, muck & gut services and water purification to help families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER

As Hurricane Ian develops, we will keep you updated on the volunteer needs for this Response operation. In the meantime, you can learn more about volunteering with Inspiritus here:

Please join us in prayer for the residents and responders that are currently in the path of this catastrophic Hurricane. May the winds and waves find calm and those who are on its path, reach safety and refuge from harm.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus