St. Michael’s Relief Fund Gives Grants To Four Local Agencies

provided to The Santiva Chronicle

St. Michael’s Hurricane Relief Fund gave $50,000 to local agencies last week to help the community recover from the storm that hit Sept. 28 and caused wide-spread destruction. The St. Michael’s Relief Fund was created Oct. 1 and raised $128,000 by Nov. 17.

Church leaders chose to present grants to four local organizations serving the needs of people severely impacted by Hurricane Ian. Leaders said they are grateful for these organizations’ good work and happy to partner with them. FISH of Sanibel Captiva and Community Housing and Resources received $15,000 each and Gladiolus Food Pantry and Community Cooperative received $10,000 each.

Vestry member Pat Norton, Fr. Bill Van Oss, Rector, Executive Director Melissa Rice, Director of Communications Sue Van Oss

Vestry member Jerry Davenport, left, CEO Maggie Fiener, Executive Director Marie Espinoza, Fr. Bill Van Oss, Rector, vestry member Pat Norton and Program Coordinator Manuela Martinez

Vestry member Pat Norton, Fr. Bill Van Oss, Rector, Executive Director Miriam Ortiz and board members Julie Vergin and Karen Jarboe

Vestry member Pat Norton, Fr. Bill Van Oss, Rector, CEO Stefanie Edwards

The focus of the relief fund shifted Dec. 1 to the rebuilding of the church property, which was extensively damaged, including the popular Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop. Funds will help cover early shortfalls in insurance reimbursement and repairs, church leaders said. “It will be a long road to recovery, but we will restore the property so St. Michael’s can continue to serve those in need.”

The St. Michael’s and All Angels congregation are temporarily worshiping at their temporary location, the Peace Lutheran Church on McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. Sunday worship is at 11:30 a.m. followed by coffee hour and many other programs. Christmas Eve services will be at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Christmas morning service will be at 10 a.m.

To donate to the St. Michael’s Hurricane Relief Fund visit the church’s website or text SMAA Ian to 73256 (there is a space between SMAA and Ian).

Church leaders thank all who have made a meaningful difference to others during this challenging time by contributing to the relief fund. St. Michael’s will continue, as it always has, to also support our local community partners doing marvelous work for those in need.