TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning announced the recipients of their $2 million Hurricane Helene recovery and relief grant.
According to a press release, the funding will directly benefit those who are continuing to serve the community amid Helene recovery efforts, including Coast Guard officers, police officers, firefighters, sheriff's offices and teachers throughout the Tampa Bay area.
“We are honored to support the first responders and teachers affected by this devastating storm,” Tampa Bay Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik said in a statement. “These individuals are the backbone of our community, and it’s crucial that we stand with them as they rebuild. We hope this grant offers significant relief and reassures them that they are not facing this recovery alone.”
After being inspired by the team's generosity, Lightning Community Heroes Celia Ferman and Jim Ferman pledged an additional $1 million on behalf of Ferman Motor Car Company Inc.
“Our hearts are broken for those so badly impacted by this storm and its aftermath,” Ferman Automotive Group Leader Jim Ferman said in a statement. “We hope in our own way to support those first responders and community leaders who have put their own needs aside to stand on the front lines and help others in our community.”
The press release stated that the total $3 million will be distributed in collaboration with local community partners to help first responders and community leaders who lost their homes or suffered catastrophic damage from the storm.
