PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — Senator Rick Scott toured the storm surge damage caused by Hurricane Helene in Charlotte County, urging affected residents and business owners to explore available assistance programs. The aftermath of Helene’s impact has left the community grappling with physical and emotional turmoil as they seek aid for recovery.
The storm, which unleashed an extraordinary surge of water, inundated low-lying neighborhoods and transformed parts of Punta Gorda into a watery expanse. City officials reported that roughly 300 homes and 60 businesses faced significant damage, remnants of a storm that many never anticipated.
“I lost everything”: Helene clean up continues in water damaged Charlotte County
Within the Harbor Belle RV Resort, some residents shared heartbreaking stories of loss. Elaine Titus, reflecting on her decade-long residency in the park, noted the unprecedented levels of flooding. “Since I’ve been here, about ten years, we’ve never had this much water,” she remarked, her voice a mixture of disbelief and determination. “I will look to rebuild, because I love it here. They are doing everything they can for us.”
Alisia Miller’s perspective echoed the despair felt by many, as she shared, “Hurricane Ian was nothing like the storm surge we got from Helene. I lost everything, everything.” The shared grief among neighbors transformed their conversations into moments of connection, where their sorrows were met with understanding and empathy.
While recovery efforts remain a priority, the Local Emergency Management team is tirelessly working to mobilize additional resources to expedite the cleanup process. “We are focused on bringing in more team members and equipment for cleanup so it’s quicker and more efficient,” said Fells, a local official deeply invested in the community’s restoration. “Our goal for the last 72 hours has been to determine how we can best assist every resident affected.”
On Tuesday afternoon, Senator Scott, alongside Congressman Greg Stuebe, visited the heart of the damage, speaking with local business owners grappling with the heavy costs of flood repairs. The officials reassured those in need about the assistance programs available to them, providing a glimmer of hope amid the wreckage. “FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) has a variety of grant programs primarily for homeowners that have lost their homes or are out of their homes because of water,” affirmed Sen. Scott. “The SBA (Small Business Administration) has a loan program for both homeowners and businesses. We will ensure the federal government does its part.”
As families like Titus and Miller begin to navigate a new reality, the resilience of the Punta Gorda community shines through their efforts to rebuild and recover. To apply for FEMA assistance, CLICK HERE. To apply for SBA assistance, CLICK HERE.
