Rebuilding Futures: Supporting Children and Schools Though Hurricane Recovery

In the aftermath of hurricanes like Helene and Milton, our community’s K-12 children face enormous challenges. From school disruptions and the stress of evacuation to returning to damaged or devastated environments, many young people grapple with ongoing effects following a major storm.  

Right now, many schools are facing significant obstacles as they work to rebuild after the storms. Educators are doing their best with limited resources, and many families are struggling to provide even the basics.

Support for Schools and Students

To help Tampa Bay students return to a sense of normalcy in the classroom, Community Foundation Tampa Bay has provided $125,000 in grant funding to support our local education foundations: Hillsborough Education Foundation, Pinellas Education Foundation, Citrus County Education Foundation, Hernando County Education Foundation, and Pasco County Education Foundation. These organizations are helping to ensure that students have the tools and support they need to thrive as we continue to recover.  

Schools are more than just places to learn—they’re safe havens, sources of stability, and spaces where children can find routine, encouragement, and a sense of community. Something as simple as having all their school supplies, familiar classroom decorations, and a clean, organized learning space can provide children with a sense of normalcy and security that is crucial to their recovery after a storm.

“We are deeply grateful to Community Foundation of Tampa Bay for their generous grant funding,” said Kim Jowell, CEO of Pinellas Education Foundation. “Many teachers lost everything in their classrooms and this funding will be instrumental in helping them rebuild and continue their vital work – shaping young minds for the future.”

How You Can Help

The need for ongoing resources—whether it’s school supplies, mental health services, or support for families—will remain long after the initial relief efforts fade. We invite you to join us in supporting the incredible work of these educational foundations. Your contributions will directly impact children in our area, helping them regain a sense of security, stability, and hope for the future.

Local Education Foundations were able to submit urgent, hurricane-related requests for support through Community Foundation Tampa Bay’s always-active Critical Needs List. To contribute support or identify other urgent needs from local nonprofits, view the Critical Needs List here.