For many families, 2024 will be unforgettable. The Tampa Bay community was hit by two hurricanes, Helene and Milton, back-to-back, resulting in thousands of damaged or destroyed homes.
For many, recovery will be a major challenge. While national agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency are providing relief, it’s often insufficient. Fortunately, local nonprofit Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay is working to make a difference.
RTTB offers its services year-round, focusing not only on hurricane relief but on creating safe and healthy homes through repairs and construction. Since its founding, RTTB has repaired more than 2,500 homes and built over 30 affordable houses for eligible individuals and families.
During projects, RTTB takes measures to ensure the renovated, or new, home is safe. For repairs, the team cleans ducts and HVAC systems, replaces carpet with solid flooring, installs secure doors and windows and removes hazards. For new builds, they prioritize insulation and weatherproofing with quality materials.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton brought new urgency. According to Jose García, chief executive officer, the organization is working on “about 75 houses per week,” but demand remains high. García shared that around 19,000 homes were affected by the storms in Pinellas County, alone. Though restoration efforts will take “several years,” he emphasizes that RTTB is committed “for the long haul.”
Since the hurricanes, many supporters and professionals have joined RTTB’s efforts. Sponsors and donors have contributed the “substantial financial support needed to make this possible,” García said. Trade professionals including plumbers, electricians, carpenters and roofers, have also “set aside crews for us so we can do the work,” he says.
What does a repair project look like? It depends on the extent of the damage. García’s team prioritizes safety first. Phase one begins with securing the home, where one of the first steps is tarping the roof. While temporary, this creates a “safe environment” for the owner. The team also removes water-damaged drywall to prevent mold.
“Many of these houses got up to two or three feet of water,” García says.
Phase two of the project includes reinstalling drywall and replacing the roof, to prepare the home for future storms.
“Our goal is to rebuild lives,” García says. He sees the impact Hurricanes Helene and Milton have had on low-income community members. “It’s just a disruption—a total disruption—of lives that are already difficult. Now, you’re forcing people to leave their haven, the place they come back to each night.”
Individuals can apply for RTTB’s services online. Eligibility requirements include being a resident of one of RTTB’s service counties, owning and living in the home needing repairs, having a household income at, or below, 120% of the area’s median, not owning other properties and being current on mortgage and taxes. Once eligibility is confirmed, there’s an initial phone interview and home assessment. Upon approval, repair work begins.
Natural disasters often bring communities together, and RTTB exemplifies neighbors helping neighbors. Those interested in contributing can volunteer or donate. Trade professionals can donate time and expertise, speeding up the repair process.
García encourages businesses to get involved noting, that it’s a powerful way to give back and “expose people to the reality of the situation.”
Hurricanes Helene and Milton left a long-lasting impact, as García highlighted, but RTTB’s efforts offer a beacon of hope. More importantly, the organization inspires others in the community to step up and support those in need.