We never closed our doors, before, during, or after the storm. And the need for help has only increased since Ian left a path of destruction.
Immediately after Hurricane Ian, we connected hundreds of residents with local resources. We linked a group in Parkland, FL, collecting supplies to donate in Naples with the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul. We helped volunteers find the most vulnerable populations for meal delivery. We assisted high school students collecting hygiene supplies and pet food. Perhaps our most noteworthy contribution was to activate a team of listeners, volunteers who offered emotional support for people needing to process the trauma of so much loss.
In the weeks following the storm, our clients requested case management and referral services for FEMA applications. They required tarps for roofs, debris clean-up, and utility assistance.
Twelve months later, our community is still in recovery.
Client requests over the months shifted to food, housing help, medical and dental assistance, senior services, disability equipment, mental health resources, and diapers. Collier Resource Center continues to meet the demand for case management and follow-up care.
Hurricane Ian challenged our entire community. Obstacles for an already compromised population intensified. We are still gluing together the cracked and shattered pieces of people’s lives as we work hard to prepare for future community challenges.
