#SAVESTPETE

My name is Nicole O'Neil and I'm a 21-year-old St. Pete local. Being raised in "The Burg," I have had the pleasure of experiencing everything that makes it so beautiful and unique. From memories such as sunsets on Pass-A-Grille, live bands on the beach at Caddy's, dancing at Brass Captain, flying at Albert Whitted, and riding bikes with my friends, giggling until my belly hurts, it is safe to say that this breathtaking little town is truly one of a kind.

Between Helene and Milton, our home is unrecognizable. Homes are flooded to the point of no return with people living in filth. Many homes are filled with mold-infested furniture, making the environment uninhabitable. Unfortunately, the residents have nowhere to go, the majority having had their cars flooded as well. So many people close to me, including my grandparents and numerous friends, have lost their livelihoods. Despite this, I believe there is hope for St. Pete to come together as a community and relieve the suffering of thousands.

After Helene, I took it upon myself to help clean up where I could, hoping someone would do the same for me if my house underwent substantial damage. I became personally connected with a few of the families and realized this was my opportunity to do more. Along the way, I realized that dozens of my friends were doing the same. I was even added to a group chat where some of my beautiful and selfless friends were sending the addresses of homes that needed help either shoveling sand, moving furniture, and more. Not for recognition, but purely from the kindness of their hearts. Another group of friends and I started passing out free homemade meals and eventually driving around individual neighborhoods passing out snacks and drinks.

This GoFundMe, #SaveStPete, will work towards providing the families that have lost everything with food, supplies, and restorations. My friends and I plan on personally handing out the food and supplies and helping with anything else that arises. I believe we can save St. Pete and come back from this tragedy stronger. God Bless. #SaveStPete