As we always say, the home is the center of our lives. Our 4 walls are a powerful space that transcends the purpose of shelter. Our foundations of safety are cultivated in the home; a haven in which we are safe to love, create, play, work, and grow. We stand in solidarity with our fellow SWFL neighbors, and our thoughts go out to everyone in the community that has been affected by the devastation of Hurricane Ian. As a community of unending strength with a formidable sense of togetherness, we will rise above and restore sanctuary in our homes. Dwayne shares protection practices, resources, and ways to support our communities during this time of devastation – together we can move forward.
Protecting your 4 walls after this immeasurable level of devastation is of the utmost priority. Please remember to protect yourself and your family with these tips:
- Wear a mask when going into any building that has flood damage to avoid inhaling mold and any other toxic fumes.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear when cleaning debris. Protect your head from falling tree branches, powerlines, building debris, etc.
- Be sure to contact your insurance company. Take photos and document the demolition after the storm.
- Stay diligent when contacting general contractors. Verify they’re licensed and insured in the state of Florida before making payments or signing contracts. It’s advisable to not engage with sub-contractors or contractors that request cash only. Always request license and insurance information. Verify licensing here.
To receive the necessary support to restore your home space, families and individuals impacted by the devastation can apply for federal assistance.
FEMA Assistance
Please note FEMA cannot aid with losses covered by your insurance. Fill out the form on their website or download the FEMA app. For additional assistance call: 1-800-621-3362.
Disaster Distress Hotline
Natural disasters cause more than distress to our surroundings. It’s normal and valid to feel overwhelmed during this time of crisis, and emotional support is just as important as anything else. This national hotline is dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor today.
Dwayne along with other designers and builders in SWFL joined together to form a relief fund, “Designers + Builders Unite.” They have been working diligently to do what they can to provide relief for our neighboring communities. With baby, food, and pet supplies in high demand. Once the immediate need for supplies subsided, Dwayne & company will shift their focus to help those in need rebuild . To make a monetary donation to our Go Fund Me account, please click here.
If have a foundation, a corporation, or individually prefer to contribute to a 501©(3) non-profit, we have established a partnership with LARC, Inc. (THE TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER FOR LARC, INC. IS 59-0968911, AND QUALIFIES UNDER SECTION 501©(3)) To donate to their LARC, Inc HURRICANE IAN Relief Fund please click here. If you make you contribution through LARC, Inc. please designate in the comments “DBU Relief fund.” Please know that 100% of your contribution made through LARC, Inc. will be utilized, there will be no administration fees applied to these donations.
The power of community is truly transformative and the way forward to cultivate a sense of stability. If you’d like to donate here are a few recommended sources:
To Donate Supplies
Conservancy of Southwest Florida – They are currently accepting towels, romaine lettuce, apples, carrots, corn, oranges, bleach, water, detergent, hand sanitizer, reusable ice packs, carbon filters, D- batteries, and ant bait traps.
Hertz Arena – Currently accepting pillows, blankets, air mattresses, and hygiene products.
Humane Society Naples- Currently accepting pellet litter, clay non-clumping litter, dog crates, cat crates, and soft toys for dogs.
Gulf Coast Humane Society – Currently accepting pet food and treats, canned cat and dog food, bleach, blankets, linens, and towels.
Greater Naples YMCA – Currently accepting dish soap, paper towels, rags, gloves, face masks, tarps, contractor bags, peroxide, band-aids, bleach, flashlights, fans, bug spray, diapers and wipes, shovels, rakes, buckets and squeegees.
To Volunteer
Never underestimate the power of community. We are grateful to those who have donated and provided support in this time of need. Together we can fortify our home spaces and reinstill sanctuary within our four walls.
