ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch and other city officials launched the We Are St. Pete Fund to help assist in disaster relief for residents, small businesses and St. Pete employees.
The fund was launched in partnership with the Pinellas Community Foundation, the city said in a news release.
The mayor stated that many people in St. Pete are "facing devastation" after Hurricane Helene brought record-breaking storm surge to parts of the Tampa Bay area.
"The We Are St. Pete Fund will have a direct impact on our community by addressing immediate recovery needs and laying the groundwork for longer-term efforts that will prepare us for future disasters," Welch said. "I encourage those who can give; every contribution will help us rebuild."
On top of launching the fund, the City of St. Petersburg has already donated $200,000 to the cause with the first $100,000 paying for administrative costs and allowing 100% of each gift to go directly to disaster survivors. The remaining $100,000 will go to disaster relief recipients.
All donations received by the fund will be used to directly support those impacted by Hurricane Helene, according to city leaders.
Hurricane Helene is being blamed for more than 166 deaths and billions of dollars in destruction across the Southeast U.S.
More resources are available for those affected by the storm, including help with medical care, food and other needs.
For more information on resources for cleanup, rebuilding, food, shelter and more, click here.
