Aleta's home destroyed by hurricane Ian

Aleta Wiegand has always helped others. She's a glass artist and shared her glorious mangos with friends all over the country for years. Now she needs our help.

Aleta lives in St. James City on Pine Island in Florida. She never got flood insurance because previous storm surges only came partway up the lawn of her house. Ian was different. The storm surge destroyed nearly everything in her home. She can't turn on the power because all the outlets have been underwater. It's simply too dangerous. She can't stay in the house because of black mold.

Her car was submerged and is totaled. Without one, it is nearly impossible to avail herself of the little help available. Help is genuinely needed, and fast.

Aleta's house needs to be gutted, the roof, walls, and doors replaced before she can live there. She desperately needs a car. We've set the initial goal at a fraction of what is needed.

A group of friends has gotten together to coordinate help for Aleta. I'm setting up her GoFundMe because I live in Philadelphia, too far away to help in more immediate ways. So many people have been asking how they can help. This is the best way. Even small donations will help this cherished member of our community. All funds collected will go directly into Aleta's bank account.

Please help if you can, and share this far and wide. Thank you!