From showers to sleeping facilities to much-needed laundry that wasn’t done in almost a week, the East Pasco Family YMCA in Zephyrhills was honored to assist FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association) first responders with Hurricane Milton relief efforts. The group of over 50 was from Louisiana and deployed to the region after the category 3 hurricane wreaked havoc on the region.
The collaboration was made possible when the City of Zephyrhills approached the YMCA for assistance.
“Following the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, FEMA deployed out-of-state crews (from Indiana, Kentucky, and other states) to assist with hurricane-related water rescues and other needs in Zephyrhills,” explains Kevin Weiss, Public Information Officer, City of Zephyrhills, who also chairs the East Pasco YMCA Board.
“The crew began staging at the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport but had no place to rest and shower. Zephyrhills City Manager Billy Poe suggested the City of Zephyrhills ask the East Pasco Family YMCA to serve as a temporary shelter for the FEMA workers. From there, I contacted the Y's Ryan Pratt and Alex Delgado to see if they would be willing to find a solution. They were immediately eager to help with whatever was needed. Simultaneously, city officials contacted Duke Energy to ensure power would be restored at the Y facility. It was truly a collaborative effort. The City of Zephyrhills is grateful for our partnership with the East Pasco Family YMCA, along with all the services they provide to our community-at-large,” he added.
Indeed, despite damage to the facility, including partial roof collapse, considerable damage to the ceiling on the wellness floor and pool pump room, the warm spirit of YMCA hospitality was front and center for the 53 individuals. Group X studio, the gym and racquetball courts were instantly made available to host our overnight guests.
Alex Delgado, Associate Executive Director, East Pasco and Dade City YMCA was “honored to house these heroes in our facility while they worked to ensure the safety of our community in Zephyrhills.”
“They expressed how grateful they were to have air conditioning and hot showers. These men had spent time in Orlando before coming to Zephyrhills as they bounced around Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Hannah Davidson, our Aquatics Director, was on site and was instrumental in ensuring they were accommodated and felt a warm welcome from the YMCA. We also provided them with our washer and dryer as some men told Hannah that they hadn’t done laundry in 6 days!” he shared.
Ryan Pratt, Tampa Y’s District Executive Director, appreciated East Pasco YMCA for stepping up.
“Alex, Hannah and the staff were outstanding hosts for our guests. The City of Zephyrhills and East Pasco Y have a long tradition of supporting the surrounding community. This is just another example of how community partners come together during times of need.”
Hannah Davidson agrees.
“The feedback was amazing from all of them. They told me they were ‘parked on the road with no shade cover, we really are so grateful to be able to sleep inside in the AC,’ and one fireman told me ‘to be able to finally wash my clothes is huge!’”
“I’m blessed to be part of an Association that engages in the needs of the community. To me, this is what the Y is all about,” Hannah enthused.
Indeed, this is what the Y is all about.
Published Wednesday, October 16, 2024.