Following natural disasters, it is essential to remain alert to the potential for scams. Unfortunately, some individuals attempt to profit from others’ empathy and generosity during times of crisis, exploiting those who want to help.
Verified GoFundMe Fundraisers for Tampa Bay’s Hurricane Helene Victims
GoFundMe has shared some verified local fundraisers to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene in the Tampa Bay area. This ensures your donation goes to the right hands and provides genuine assistance to those in need.
Pinellas County Fundraisers
- Alegria Montessori School: Children at Alegria Montessori School in St. Petersburg have lost their classrooms due to severe flooding. Educational equipment was destroyed in the surge, and a parent is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of the school.
- Candy Kitchen in Madeira Beach: The iconic Candy Kitchen, which has served ice cream and nostalgic treats for over 74 years, was devastated by Helene. The owners couldn’t afford flood insurance. The fundraiser aims to cover new equipment, staff salaries, and replace the spot’s unique features.
- Seaside Seabird Sanctuary: Wildlife at Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores needs urgent help. The nonprofit rehabilitation center cares for sick, injured, and orphaned native birds. Unfortunately, the sanctuary’s hospital and many cages were badly damaged in the hurricane.
- Clearwater Community Sailing Center (CCSC): CCSC has been a staple for generations of sailors learning the ropes, but its future is uncertain after Helene damaged the docks and crushed multiple boats.
- Sim Center in Dunedin: The Sim Center, a popular place for virtual reality fun, experienced a total loss. The owner’s son is raising money, sharing a resilient message: “This business was a lifetime’s worth of work, and I can’t let it end like this.”
- The Helm in St. Pete Beach: The family-run restaurant, The Helm, suffered severe damage. The owners’ children organized the fundraiser, asking for support to “bring back the love and warmth that once filled the walls at The Helm.”
- Yogurt City in John’s Pass: Yogurt City was destroyed, and the local community is rallying to raise money for owners Ron and Elana Davis.
- Shop in Clearwater Beach: A store in Clearwater Beach is currently undergoing a cleanup, with debris and piles of sand outside.
Clearwater is rebuilding, with communities joining hands to restore normalcy.
Hillsborough County Fundraisers
- Community Montessori School: Floodwaters entered buildings at both the Civic Road Campus and Webb Campus. The school is in urgent need of funds to replace learning equipment, computers, musical instruments, and other essential items for students.
- Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation (DIYSF): DIYSF provides sailing education for young people. Donations will repair their facilities and equipment, and also help local DIYSF families rebuild.
- Farrell’s on the Island: The manager of Farrell’s is hosting a fundraiser to help the Davis Islands American restaurant. For over a decade, Farrell’s has been serving comforting staples, and they now need funds to replace their ice cream case, grill, and walk-in freezer.
- Louie Beans Coffee Truck: The storm left Louie Beans Coffee Truck completely inoperable. Ruskin residents are rallying behind owners Jennifer and Manny, who are “known for their warm smiles, top-notch service, and delicious coffee.”
Resources for Those Affected
A reminder: We have gathered resources for those impacted by Hurricane Helene, including FEMA advice and ways to give back to the community.
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