Hurricane Ian has impacted all of us in Southwest Florida but has been catastrophic for several of our Estero neighborhoods. There are some residents who have lost everything – cars, household furnishings, clothing, precious keepsakes. Most of the damage has occurred in communities on the west side of US 41. This includes neighborhoods along West Broadway, Williams Road and Coconut Road.
Some residents will have to completely start over, and recovery will be a long-term effort. We know this is a time when our community wants to come together to support our neighbors who are in need. One of the ways we can help is to contribute any amount we can afford to the Estero Forever Foundation.
In addition, Ocean Church, located at 22100 S. Tamiami Trail in Estero, is helping collect donations for those who have been impacted by Hurricane Ian. Donation drop-off hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The following are the items that are the most needed currently:
- Drinking water
- Over the counter medication
- Toiletries (Men & Women)
- Non-perishable food
- Adult diapers
- Baby diapers
- Baby wipes
- Baby formula
- Tarps
- Generators
- Gas cans
- Plywood
- Portable grills
- Propane tanks
No clothing, furniture, blankets or toys will be accepted.
For those wishing to sign up to volunteer to be boots on the ground during this time, or to report the needs that exist in the community, follow this link: https://www.oceanchurch.com/relief/.
Both shelters at Hertz Arena and Estero Recreation Center are still open, housing about 900 Southwest Florida residents, but still have space available for people in need.