Pictured: Ruby Hodges. Photo courtesy of Senior Friendship Centers.

If there is one thing Floridians have grown to accept when it comes to storms it’s to expect the unexpected. Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the United States in decades, wreaked havoc amongst so many Gulf Coast communities when it rolled in on September 28, 2022. It caused catastrophic damage to countless businesses and families and left several of our neighbors without food, shelter and income. However, one thing was made abundantly clear from the disaster: when the going gets tough, the tough community gets going! Over the past several months, many of our local nonprofit  organizations stepped up to lend a much-needed helping hand. We are honored to share some of their stories in our philanthropy edition over the next few weeks.

The following story was shared by our friends at Senior Friendship Center about members, Ruby and Willie Hodges. "When Hurricane Ian came, our home where we care for our 8 grandchildren, including our two newborn twins, was damaged. We had no insurance, but we are grateful for all the support that Senior Friendship Centers has done for us," shares Ruby. "They gave us tarps for roofs and referred us for food and clothing. Our grandchildren also got back-to-school backpacks. We didn’t even expect to celebrate the holidays, but they gave presents for the whole family and full Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners! We’re thankful for them helping us get through this." 

Pictured: Ruby Hodges. Photo courtesy of Senior Friendship Centers.