Disaster Fund now close to $3 million goal to help island

Now in 2nd week of check distribution, 260 donors

The island Disaster Fund, set up to help local businesses and institutions recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, is now close to its $3 million goal, and is in its second week of checks being distributed to businesses and organizations.

“We are past the mucking out point and now we are in the rebuilding stage,” said Larry Hannah, who is one of three administrators of the fund, run through Lighthouse United Methodist Church.

So far, they have heard of only one business that will not immediately reopen, and that is not because of funds related to storm damage.

The fund has been supported by over 260 donors, with an average of $10,700. They have received checks from $150 to up to six figures. The checks that have been distributed  have helped with everything from construction to inventory. Hannah said that now, as businesses use credit cards for repairs and inventory, they have been able to quickly pay back those accounts.

“Applications are still coming in,” said Hannah.

One hundred percent of the money collected is supporting businesses and community institutions, and similar groups. Boca Grande’s Crews Bank & Trust is handling the funds. Three families on the island, August and Ginny Busch, the Ginny Nicholas family, and Will and Sarah Farish, stepped up to seed the fund just after Hurricane Helene.

IRS guidelines are followed with a disaster fund, they are not able to fund lost wages, which is difficult for businesses. Throughout the application and granting process, committee members will meet with applicants, help them identify priorities, and reassure them of the community’s support.

One hundred percent of the money collected by the Disaster Fund will be distributed. The Disaster Fund team is made up entirely of volunteers.

If you are able to contribute to the Boca Grande Disaster Fund, please send donations to Boca Grande United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 524, Boca Grande, FL 33921.

Application forms are available at the Beacon office. For questions, you can email Stephanie Newman at snewman@spiritflighteast.com or Mary O’Bannon at meobannon@yahoo.com.