More than a donation — a message of solidarity
Isaias, the season’s first hurricane, made landfall near Destin in Florida’s Panhandle the night of Oct. 9 as a Category 2 storm with winds of 105 mph.
It brought heavy rain, storm surge, flooding, wind damage and power outages.
Six deaths have been confirmed, according to the Governor’s Office.
Early damage estimates range between $1 billion and $3 billion.
As of Oct. 14, FEMA had not yet made a decision regarding individual assessment assistance, according to local news accounts.
American Legion Post 90 has reacted a little quicker.
The post in Cape Coral has organized a supply drive to aid those in need.
“Having endured major tropical storms in Southwest Florida, Post 90 leadership recognizes the critical 72-hour window where basic recovery supplies are urgently needed on the ground,” the post said in a release sent our way morning of Oct. 16.
Post 90 Commander Ed Lyons explained.
“Districts 1 and 2 need our help,” he said. “While damage assessments are underway, our comrades are without power and essential supplies. We know what this devastation feels like, and we know how much community support means during recovery. We are calling upon all Legionnaires, auxiliary members, families, and neighbors throughout Cape Coral and Lee County to rally with us for our Panhandle family.”
Post 90 is collecting new, unopened practical items only: cleaning and recovery supplies, like trash bags, tarps, bleach, disinfectant wipes, mops, brooms, work gloves and bug spray; heavy-duty extension cords, fuel cans, flashlights and batteries; and non-perishable food that does not have to be prepared or cooked and manual can openers.
We thank the post for its efforts.
As many of us learned in the wake of Ian, a case of water can mean more than a donated necessity.
It can mean, as we pick up soggy and ruined possessions, comfort kids and families, that we are not alone.
If you can help, Post 90 is at 1401 SE 47th St. Drop-offs can be made daily after 11 a.m.
— Eagle editorial