Our Rapid Response Initiative Delivers Support After Storms

The Rapid Response Initiative at Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) was launched after Hurricane Helene and made the first grant to support Milton relief efforts seven hours before the historic storm made landfall. Building on lessons from hurricanes Irma and Ian, we recognized the need for an “evergreen” fund – one designed to proactively support our community during any disaster. This fund provides the resources and flexibility to focus on the community’s most urgent needs, as quickly as possible.

The purpose of the Rapid Response Initiative is to provide life-sustaining support to those who were most impacted. Grants were awarded for food, temporary shelter, access to education, and mental health services. Over $181,000 was granted to assist community members with mental health care services; the third largest funding request.

In the wake of the 2024 hurricane season, we have witnessed incredible acts of community support and resilience. From nationwide donations of supplies to neighbors pitching in to help each other clean up storm debris, to rebuilding our beautiful coastal communities, the power of unity and togetherness has never been more evident. 

“Mental health services are vital in the aftermath of back-to-back hurricanes, as our community navigates the emotional and psychological toll of these events. Recovery isn’t just about rebuilding homes; it’s about healing lives,” said Gulf Coast’s Director of Community Leadership Jennifer Johnston. “At Gulf Coast Community Foundation, we’re committed to ensuring that individuals and families have access to the support they need to move forward with resilience and hope.”

Resilient Retreat, a Gulf Coast grantee, is a critical organization that empowers survivors of trauma, first responders, and helping professionals to build resilience and thrive. They provide accessible, confidential, evidence-based programs and education on how to provide trauma-informed care. After completing programs at Resilient Retreat, individuals report decreases in depression and PTSD symptoms. Resilient Retreat’s impactful programs include equine therapy, facility dog therapy, mindfulness exercises, neurofeedback, cooking classes, exercise classes, medication, and nature experiences. 

Operation Warrior Resolution also received a grant to provide immediate, life-sustaining assistance and mental health support for local veterans. Guided by their mission, “To Heal and Transform” through holistic therapies, the organization emphasized how this funding enabled them to expand mental health services and address critical needs during hurricane recovery, amplifying their impact on the veterans they serve. They offer brain-based healing therapies to help individuals manage stress while also distributing essential items to support local veterans and family members affected by the 2024 hurricanes. 

Operation Warrior Resolution’s Founder and CEO Kendra Simpkins shared, “We are grateful to Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Rapid Response Initiative for their generous grant providing immediate assistance to local veteran families affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton.”

John Marr, an Air Force veteran from Englewood, and his family, discovered a sense of stability and connection after participating in Operation Warrior Resolution’s whole-family approach to mental health services. “OWR has been life-changing for us. Our family has been restored, and we are able to engage in normal activities as a family versus walking around the house constantly afraid of upsetting the apple cart,” John shared. OWR has supported their emotional healing while also addressing the critical needs for their home following Hurricane Milton thanks to Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s generosity.

The Rapid Response Initiative at Gulf Coast Community Foundation underscores the power of preparedness, compassion, and collaboration in times of crisis. Through proactive funding and partnerships with incredible organizations like Resilient Retreat, Operation Warrior Resolution, and dozens of others, we have seen firsthand how targeted support can transform lives, especially in the aftermath of devastating natural disasters. From mental health services and trauma recovery to essential aid for veterans and families, the initiative has been a lifeline for so many in our community. As we reflect on the resilience of our region, we are reminded that recovery is not just about rebuilding structures—it’s about restoring hope and fostering strength in every individual. With the unwavering support of donors, community members, and nonprofit partners, Gulf Coast Community Foundation remains committed to standing ready for the challenges ahead, ensuring we can meet the urgent needs of our community whenever disaster strikes.

Together, we are building a brighter, more resilient future.