Rebuilding and Restoring Hope After Hurricane Milton

The recent storm that swept through Indian River County brought immense challenges to our community, and The Source was not spared. Hurricane Milton forced us to close our doors ahead of the storm due to safety concerns, as neither our building on Commerce Avenue nor our Dignity Busses, which typically provide overnight shelter, are hurricane-rated safe locations. This meant our members had to seek alternative accommodations during the storm, a reality that tested both their resilience and ours.

We acted swiftly to keep our members informed, providing updates as Hurricane Milton approached. Once the local hurricane shelter was confirmed, we ensured transportation for all members in need. While we were initially relieved to learn that this year’s shelter would offer meals and cots, our members arrived to find no cots available, leaving them to sleep on the concrete floor for two days. In response, The Source stepped in to provide pillows and blankets, offering a small but meaningful comfort during those difficult hours.

After the storm passed, another challenge arose: the shelter announced its closure at noon, leaving those displaced with no immediate place to go. While we were still assessing the damage to our own facility at Commerce Avenue, as well as Dignity Village, our staff quickly mobilized, leaving their families to reopen our building and pick up members from the shelter. Despite the chaos, our kitchen team prepared a warm meal, and members were welcomed back to the comfort and security of the Dignity Busses. Many expressed deep gratitude for the soft beds on the Dignity Bus, after two days on the hard floor—a comfort they will no longer take for granted.

Unfortunately, Dignity Village did not escape the storm unscathed. Several of our buildings were damaged, with three roofs requiring repairs and four residential units experiencing flooding. We also lost power for five days. Thankfully, Indian River County Emergency Management supplied us with two generators, and Veronica Kluener and her family generously provided an additional generator. Their kindness made a critical difference, ensuring we could continue serving those in need during this trying time.

Now, as we face the long road to recovery, our team is working diligently to restore Dignity Village. Our mission to provide safe and affordable housing to individuals experiencing homelessness remains unwavering, despite the obstacles the storm has presented. With your support, we can rebuild stronger than ever and continue offering a place of refuge to those who need it most.

The costs of repairs, restoration, and ensuring future preparedness are significant. Your contribution can make a lasting impact in helping us restore our facilities and sustain our programs. We are confident that with your help, we will not only recover but also strengthen our ability to serve our community in the face of future challenges.

Thank you for standing with us during this critical time. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those facing homelessness, ensuring that they always have a safe place to call home.

By Anthony Zorbaugh,

Executive Director of The Source