Florida Tornado Relief
October 2023
Last updated: October 2024
In response to a devastating tornado that struck a Floridian community still recovering from Hurricane Idalia, All Hands and Hearts (AHAH) staged a rapid response to clear debris from homes and a local business. AHAH’s quick mobilization helped Crystal River’s small community recover from further damage and distress for those affected.
Our Work
In a rapid response that lasted three days, the AHAH team worked tirelessly to remove debris and hazardous trees from three different sites. They assisted a local business by clearing its property and provided critical support to two family homes that had been heavily impacted by the tornado. The team’s efforts were not just about physical cleanup; they helped restore a sense of safety and stability for these residents, who had been overwhelmed by the devastation.
Disaster Profile
Less than two months after storm surge from Hurricane Idalia impacted Crystal River, Florida, the town was rocked by a tornado in the middle of the night. The tornado brought down dozens of power poles, uprooted and split hundreds of trees, caused roof damage throughout the town and left many families and businesses reeling. A USDA-subsidized apartment complex as well as a low-income neighborhood were among the hardest-hit areas. The tornado left many people displaced and sleeping in shelters set up by United Way and the Red Cross. Several individuals were still navigating FEMA claims and processes from Hurricane Idalia when the tornado struck.