The Bakers and Island Park Hurricane Relief Fund

Hello 

My name is Laurie Weaver. I live in the town of Navarre in the Florida panhandle. My sister, Jennifer Baker, her husband Gary and my nephew, Adam, live in south Ft. Myers in a community called Island Park. Their homes and neighborhood had catastrophic damage from Hurricane Ian. This Go Fund Me is for their immediate needs and their neighbors in Island Park.

As many of you know- Jennifer, Gary, and her family did not fare well through Hurricane Ian. 

The storm surge destroyed the lower level, garages, and both contents of Jenn and Gary's home. Adam’s home suffered substantial damage as well. They lost ALL of their vehicles. Fortunately, the family brought them two loaner vehicles to share for now. 

Hurricane Ian annihilated the Island Park community. If the home was not elevated, it was a complete and total loss. Many friends and neighbors lost everything- their home, vehicles, possessions, and possibly their employment. 

Even while going through their own heartaches and challenges- Gary and Jenn have opened the home to these friends and neighbors- providing a place to sleep or meals to eat. Including rescuing and saving the lives of their elderly neighbors during the storm surge. The video is on my FB. 

Eventually, insurance will assist some with repairs, but it will not cover all the expenses incurred by these victims. There are immediate needs today. Basic essentials like food, clothing, toiletries, cleaning supplies, generators, fuel, ice, storage containers, yard and debris clean-up tools, temporary lodging, transportation, etc...

Many have asked me how they can help. This Go Fund Me will provide funds for the immediate needs of Jenn, Gary, and their Island Park neighbors. No donation is too small. Together they add up to making a difference. More importantly, it lets Jenn, Gary, and their neighbors know they're not alone and that we care. 

Jenn tries to update me daily on the progress made, even without power, water, and limited cell service. However, the road ahead of them is going to be long, arduous, and challenging. 

Thank you so much for your prayers and concern for my family. It means a lot. ❤️