Photo: October 2024. South St. Petersburg, FL. Bags of trash fill the street. Flooding from Helene caused tremendous property damage. Taken by Gaia's Garden.
It's been nearly one year since Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton raged down on Tampa Bay merely two weeks apart. The category 3 hurricanes wrecked havoc with storm surges and intense winds causing immense damages. The aftermath revealed homes unlivable, businesses inoperable, food inedible. With some members of our community struggling deeply, the team at Gaia's Garden Goods were eager to assist our neighbors.
We started giving away free gift bags of essential goods including things like soap, cleaners, and personal care items to people who had been set back due to the hurricanes.
"I nearly cried when I saw your post." said one recipient after receiving a goodie bag. "Our home is down to the studs. I’m so grateful you’re here trying to help."
“I’m giving this to my mother.” Another St. Pete resident said. “She had flooding. The damage was way worse than we expected.”
“First my cousin passed away and then the storms hit. This year has just been so much. Every little bit helps.”
We gave dozens of gift bags and essential goods away last year to Hurricane Survivors. At Gaia's Garden Goods, we continuously strive to give back to our community. If you are interested in some of our recent initiatives check out our About Us Page. If you would like to support our work, consider sponsoring a soap donation.