Irma relief lost home Hildebrandt

Hello my name is Lisa Crespo and I live in Miami, FL

Irma has wrecked the home of my dad, David (Von Hilde) Hildebrandt and his wife Kim in the lower Florida Keys. They have lost nearly everything.  Authorities like the National Guard are now there helping to give out food (MRE’s) and water. Winn Dixie on Big Pine is open but supplies are limited. Gas is scarce but available at times in limited quantities.  Many items, like bottled water, are currently being distributed for free but everything for sale is on a cash basis only.

During the storm they stayed at a friend’s stilt house also in the lower Keys.  They are also helping to feed all of their friends and neighbors pets as well as other dogs and cats that are abandoned or strayed near both homes.  In their own home, the roof is gone in the kitchen and living room areas. They are currently working to salvage what they can.  Emergency services, like FEMA, and Insurance will take some time and can be a tedious process. Then there is the uncertainty of how much it will cost versus funds received and how long to rebuild.  Right now, those that have survived the storm and stayed in the Keys are in basic survival and refuge mode until it is determined what their future holds.  At this time, if you leave the Lower Keys you are not allowed back in for an undetermined amount of time. Those that continue to stay don't want to leave all they have left behind.  They are eager to start cleaning up and salvaging what is left so they can rebuild their lives.

I started this page because many people have asked me how they could help with the immediate need.  Daddy and Kim obviously cannot set-up an account themselves at the moment.  This is most efficient and direct way I could think of. The funds raised here will be used to help them get their life back in order. Currently, that means a source of income for basics like food and shelter.  The mortgage payment will only be waived for a certain amount of time but still has to be paid.  Kim works at a restaurant/bar in the lower keys, which is closed until further notice, and my father has a small retirement income.  Later funds could be used for rebuilding or replacing lost items.

Thank you for your support and generosity whether it is for my family or if you give to someone else’s.