For many families in Sarasota County, hurricane recovery doesn’t end when the storm passes. Long after the winds and rain have cleared, homeowners can still face damaged roofs, water intrusion, costly repairs and uncertainty about how to move forward.
Through hurricane recovery efforts supported by the American Red Cross, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGFL) is working to help homeowners address critical repair needs and remain safely in the places they call home.
For Sarasota County homeowners Larry, Saran and Olivia, critical home repairs have made a meaningful difference in their daily lives.
Restoring Comfort and Stability for Larry
For Larry, essential repairs to his Sarasota County home helped improve his living conditions and supported his ability to remain at home.
Through RTGFL, Larry received a roof replacement and a new HVAC system, addressing two important components of a safe and comfortable living environment.
The improvements included new roofing materials and the installation of a replacement air-conditioning system.
Beyond the repairs themselves, Larry’s family appreciated the communication and support they received throughout the process.
“They kept us informed. The process was fairly quickly. I mean, we didn’t have any issues at all,” his daughter shared.
For Larry and his family, the repairs provided greater comfort and reassurance about the condition of his home.
Helping Saran Recover From Hurricanes Helene and Milton
Saran has called Sarasota home for approximately 26 years. She raised her two daughters in the community and purchased her home about 11 years ago, creating a place where her family could feel comfortable and secure.
When hurricanes Helene and Milton struck Southwest Florida, Saran’s home sustained significant damage, particularly to the roof and exterior air-conditioning components.
Hurricane Milton left portions of her roof exposed, contributing to water intrusion, higher electricity bills and ongoing stress.
Through RTGFL’s hurricane recovery efforts, Saran received a new roof and critical HVAC repairs, helping restore comfort and stability to her home.
“It’s a tremendous difference. I already felt a difference,” Saran shared after the repairs.
The improvements also allowed her family to enjoy their home with greater peace of mind.
“Everything. Right now, we are, like, enjoying our space even more.”
Her story reflects how critical repairs can address more than physical damage. They can also help restore a family’s sense of security and comfort.
A Safer, More Comfortable Home for Olivia in Newtown
For more than 20 years, Olivia James has called Sarasota’s Newtown neighborhood home.
When Hurricane Milton swept through the area, her property experienced significant damage, including roof damage, a destroyed fence and a fallen tree. Her family also spent nearly a week without electricity.
Although insurance covered some of the damage, the cost of additional repairs remained a challenge.
Through RTGFL, Olivia received critical interior repairs, including drywall and insulation replacement, ceiling repairs and painting, and a new water heater.
These improvements helped address damage inside her home and restore more comfortable living conditions.
“I am very comfortable and stress-free in my home now,” Olivia shared.
She also expressed appreciation for the team that helped make the repairs possible.
“DJ and his team are amazing. Everyone is so helpful and good at what they do.”
For Olivia, the repairs brought relief after the challenges of hurricane recovery and helped restore a sense of comfort in the home she has known for decades.
Continuing Hurricane Recovery Across Florida
Stories like Larry’s, Saran’s and Olivia’s demonstrate the lasting importance of critical home repairs for homeowners recovering from disasters.
With continued support from the American Red Cross, RTGFL is working to address hurricane-related repair needs and help more residents recover.
An additional $1 million in American Red Cross funding brings RTGFL’s total contract to $4 million, supporting hurricane recovery efforts across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Sarasota, Manatee, Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties.
Beyond roofs, air-conditioning systems and interior repairs, this work is about helping homeowners maintain safe, stable places to live and protecting the communities they call home.
Need Hurricane Home Repair Assistance?
Homeowners who experienced damage from hurricanes Helene or Milton may qualify for critical home repair assistance through Rebuilding Together Greater Florida.
Learn more or apply online: RTGFL.org
Eligibility requirements and program availability apply.
Community organizations, churches and neighbors are also encouraged to share this information with homeowners who may benefit from available resources.