Sister Season Fund Awards over $121,000 in Assistance
In the weeks following Hurricane Irma, SISTER SEASON FUND, Inc. has provided emergency rental and/or utility assistance to 133 applicants working in the Key West Tourist Industry, totaling over$121,000 in grants. There are at least 40 new applications pending and little funding left. The fund generally awards less than $50,000 in housing and utility grants annually, so this represents a huge increase in assistance, and was only possible due to the generous donations which came in following the storm.
“Some applicants have lost their homes, some have only minor damage to them, but all have been out of work for 6-7 weeks.” “Not everyone is back to work yet, some have lost jobs and those that are working are not making enough tips to cover housing and utility costs.” said Ginger King, President Emeritus. This is not a short term problem as many will be looking for assistance through November and December.
The non-profit organization is hoping to raise at least another $100,000 to meet the ongoing needs of the community. If you wish to make a donation directly, go to www.sisterseason.com. If you wish to hold an event, contact Ginger King at 305-849-0991. We owe a big “thank you” to our local individuals, businesses and non-profits for their ongoing support. We are also overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from other parts of the country.
Sister Season Fund does not have an office or staff, preferring to give all of the money raised to its recipients. Due to the high demand, a temporary office was set up in October in space donated by Royal Furniture in Searstown, but was closed at the beginning of November. Applications can be obtained online at www.sisterseason.com, any local branch of Centennial Bank or at Royal Furniture.
Sister Season Fund is a grassroots registered 501(c)(3). Its mission is to prevent homelessness for those in our community who work in a tourist related industry. Should someone be temporary out of work through no fault of their own, such as Hurricane Irma, Sister Season Fund steps in to make sure they have a roof over their head.
For more information, contact Ginger King at 305-849-0991.