The Siligato Family Starting Over: Hurricane Ian

Hi. I am Cindy Gaspard, a friend of the Siligato family. As you know, Hurricane Ian recently hit southwest Florida. We weren't expecting to take a direct hit, but that's just what happened in Rotonda West, Florida where we were hunkered down during the storm. Many of you know what great, amazing people the Siligato family are. They would do anything for anyone, without hesitation. They have always been independent, rarely one to reach out for help but always there to offer. But.... Now they need your help due to Hurricane Ian, which unexpectedly looped through our town and tore through the entire area.

The Siligato family has lost everything. Details are outline below. The girls' birthdays are coming up, and they've just lost all of their possessions. They were able to salvage some clothes but many will have to be discarded due to mold damage.

Here is the current situation and status:

1. The entire house collapsed in Hurricane Ian except one bedroom and a bathroom. We were in approximately 2 feet of flood water for almost 2 days until we could get out due to the flooding.

2. The family has no renters content insurance. Their home and contente is approximately a 90% loss. They are starting over from scratch.

3. All cars were flooded. The family van is currently operational but experiencing some mechanical difficulties that need to be fixed. Olivia's car was flooded, but she is able to drive it temporarily. My car (this is Cindy.... was totaled. I will post a separate fundraiser for me personally to help with some emergency expenses).

4. Theresa and Carmelo have no income as of today since the schools are closed due to the hurricane. We expect schools to return to remote, which means they will both be unemployed.

5. The family is pending a reply from FEMA about emergency assistance such as temporary housing.

6. They are temporarily staying with Cindy (whose property is livable but no electricity) until suitable living arrangements can be located.

If you would like to help, I know the Siligato family would appreciate every dollar donated. They are starting over, from clothing, to mattresses and pillows, to blankets, kitchen stuff, and everything it takes to run a home daily. We are also setting up Amazon and Walmart Wish Lists for the girls. They will select some clothing items they like and other things they need, and if you would like to help make their birthday special, they would truly appreciate it.

I will post updates as frequently as possible. Thank you everyone for your love and support.