Chamber Announces $88,000 Donation Towards Englewood Hurricane Relief

The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce is honored to announce that the Lighthouse Church of Boca Grande has chosen our organization to be their vehicle to provide relief for hurricane ravaged citizens of off-Island Charlotte County.  They have raised an initial donation of $88,000 towards the Englewood Hurricane Relief Fund (EnglewoodChamber.com/Hurricane) to aid Englewood residents facing urgent needs after Hurricanes Helene and Milton swept through our community.

“Our Church believes in “Sharing the Light of Jesus Christ” through outreach to charitable organizations and communities needing urgent assistance beyond Boca Grande” said Peter Soderberg, co-Chair of the Lighthouse Church Mission Committee.  “We represent a congregation that has historically responded meaningfully to disasters locally and elsewhere, as we did with IAN.   Hurricane’s HELENE and MELTON struck a devastating blow to Boca Grande, so we have real compassion for those along our mutual waters that were devastated as well.  In our search for a partner that we could distribute aid through, the Englewood Chamber emerged as the most experienced and ready to distribute small cash assistance grants to citizens in most urgent need.  We have raised this money quickly to put it in the hands of the Chamber to distribute now.”

“There are so many who need our help at this time.  We are excited to be able to partner with the Englewood Chamber of Commerce and to reach out in love to our Englewood neighbors through this endeavor”, said Rev. Daphne Johnson, Senior Pastor.

“We are incredibly grateful for the kindness and generosity of Lighthouse United Methodist Church,” said Doug Izzo, Chamber Executive Director. ” The devastating impacts of these back-to-back hurricanes left widespread destruction in their wake, affecting homes, infrastructure, and essential services in Englewood and surrounding areas. Many residents, particularly vulnerable populations, are in dire need of financial support, shelter, food, and other resources to help them through this challenging time.  This huge boost to our own Hurricane Relief Fund (EnglewoodChamber.com/Hurricane) will make a real difference for our community as we work to overcome the devastating effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This grant will allow us to offer immediate, much-needed cash assistance to our neighbors, demonstrating the resilience and strength of our community.

The $88,000 grant will be administered through local relief initiatives organized by the Chamber, with a focus on direct assistance for displaced families.  Applications are available to download online at EnglewoodChamber.com/Hurricane. Hard copies are also available to fill out in person at the Chamber located at 601 S. Indiana Avenue, Englewood, FL 34223.

The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce, together with local partners and generous supporters like Lighthouse United Methodist Church, is committed to providing ongoing aid and supporting the long-term recovery efforts of our area. We encourage all residents and businesses to stay updated on relief efforts and support opportunities through our website, social media channels, and local news outlets.

For more information, please contact Doug Izzo at 941-474-5511 or Doug.Izzo@EnglewoodChamber.com