Experiencing a hurricane, no matter what category, can be a distressing experience for even the most prepared. And even when the storm has gone, the recovery process can be just as, if not worse for those affected by the natural disaster.
At Valor Hospitality Partners we truly care about our team members affected by Hurricane Sally in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We understand that recovering from a hurricane can be a long and arduous process and want to help by providing financial support to the families affected.
Read on to find out more about the effects of Hurricane Sally and learn how you can support:
Hurricane Sally was an incredibly destructive Category 2 Atlantic hurricane which became the first hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. state of Alabama since Ivan in 2004. 30 plus inches of rain fell in the Pensacola area in four hours, equivalent to a typical amount over four months. In its wake, more than 400,000 people in Alabama, Florida, and even Georgia were without power (Source) and officials believe that Sally’s damage is expected to cost an upwards of $2 billion.
Scientists warn that if we don’t take action to reverse climate change, extreme weather like Hurricane Sally will only continue to worsen. Here are 5 staggering facts about hurricanes you should consider:
- In an average three-year period, roughly five hurricanes hit US coastlines and kill 50-100 people, according to the National Weather Service.
- Ninety percent of all hurricane deaths occur from storm surges, according to National Geographic.
- Hurricane winds can reach up to nearly 200 miles per hour, according to National Geographic.
- Just one inch of water can cause $27,000 in damages to the average home, according to SBP.
- Scientists predict that there will be a 45-87 percent increase in the frequency of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the continental US in the remainder of the 21st century, according to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions.
How you can support hurricane victims
From days to months after the storm, communities need help picking up the pieces. Here are some of the most effective ways to help:
Send cash
While used items like coats and blankets for victims might seem like a good idea, relief organizations advise against it. These types of donations, including food and water, can clog up distribution channels and create more work for relief workers according to NPR. Cash donations to a nonprofit involved in recovery efforts is one of the most effective ways to provide immediate help to those in need.
Donate blood
By donating blood through the American Red Cross, you can save up to three lives. This simple but powerful gift can truly have a lasting impact. To find your nearest Red Cross, visit the Red Cross website.
Donate your time
Rebuilding efforts are incredibly important in the aftermath of extreme weather events like Hurricane Sally. Numerous reputable organizations offer support such as Habitat for Humanity who work to provide safe and reliable shelter for victims and Airbnb, who sometimes offer a special way for hosts near an affected area to open their homes to those in need.
Donate to the Valor Hospitality Partners GoFundMe (Click Here)
We have several families who are a part of the Valor team that have been displaced by Hurricane Sally after devastating loss. While the government offers grants and other financial assistance to individuals and small businesses, the application process is typically quite long, and grants can be competitive. By donating to the Valor Hospitality Partners GoFundMe as well as others supporting impacted communities, you can directly help those in need and see immediate support.
Sustainability efforts at The Lodge at Gulf State Park
Born out of the destruction of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, the redesigned Lodge at Gulf State Park was created to be “an international benchmark in environmental and economic sustainability demonstrating best practices in hospitable operations” (Source). From the building construction itself to the art on the walls, visitors will find its commitment to emphasizing both local and sustainable efforts.
Keeping along with its dedication to the environment and the local eco-systems, The Lodge is dedicated to helping the greater community in the aftermath of Hurricane Sally.
“Residents genuinely care about one another and events that impact our area always lead to a community-wide movement to help. And that same mindset reflects back on our team, who worked tirelessly to prepare our hotel and dining venues to welcome displaced guests and team members, as well as first responders.” Bill Bennett, General Manager at The Lodge at Gulf State Park.
Find out more about how you can help Valor Hospitality families in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach by visiting our GoFundMe page.
Tell us: What has your company done to help those in need after a major storm?