LARGO, Fla. — A local non-profit that has helped hundreds of families across Pinellas County is now turning to the community for help to rebuild after Hurricane Milton.
The Family Center on Deafness (FCD) plays a critical role in our area. Of the estimated 800,000 deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in Florida, roughly half live in the Tampa Bay region.
Executive Director Anthony Verdeja said it will be a slow road to recovery after their center saw significant water damage during Hurricane Milton.
"I would say we lost over 80% of what we had," Verdeja said. "What used to be a very colorful and vibrant environment, right now is a bit sad and depressing."
He estimates FCD has suffered $100,000 in losses because of the damage. It's a gut punch after more than two decades of working to build their organization.
"As a non-profit, of course, we don't have a lot of money sitting around to pay for the repairs," Verdeja said.
It's also devastating for the families who use their services. FCD is the only organization of its kind in Pinellas County, specifically supporting youth and families who are part of the local deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Verdeja said, "We believe what's most important is you can never look at an individual isolated, that they are part of their family, their community."
Sarah Traczyk said FCD has been at the center of her world since elementary school.
Traczyk signed, "I really love how connected and supportive everyone is. I've never felt alone with FCD."
She said the organization "feels like family," and in her case, it is. She met her husband there, and now their two-year-old hearing son attends the programs.
"It really helps with him picking up sign language, him picking up English," signed Traczyk.
Michelle Ellis says FCD has changed her life, breaking down barriers for her and her family.
"I don't even have words because they have such a profound impact on the families," Ellis signed. "Without FCD, our kids would feel alone and isolated."
If you would like to help FCD with hurricane recovery, click here.