By: Kate Walters & Alexis Gonzalez, American Red Cross

After three hurricanes in three months—Debby, Helene, and now Milton—struck Sarasota County, community members are feeling the deep exhaustion of hurricane fatigue. The storms have taken a toll, and many are struggling to find their way back to normal life. But instead of giving in to the weariness, the community is coming together, proving that even in the hardest times, kindness and unity can light the way.

Leading the effort are Trevor Harvey, President of the Sarasota County NAACP, and Carlos Yancy, BayFirst Business Development Specialist, along with Mary Butler from the Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association. These leaders have teamed up with other community partners to bring much-needed relief: non-perishable food, clean water, over 350 hot meals, and recovery guides. But their work is about more than just supplies—it is a reminder that Sarasota is strong, caring, and determined.

Trevor Harvey’s heartfelt words strike a chord with those around him. “We feel your pain, we understand your concern. We can’t change what Mother Nature sends our way, but we can do everything we can to help our community get back to normal.” Even though he, too, faces struggles, he says, “We're individually struggling as well, but I put my pain aside because there’s someone in my community who is struggling worse.” His message of resilience and selflessness lifts spirits and shows that true strength comes from lifting others.

One resident, Colleen Wiggs, comes to collect food and supplies for herself and her daughter. Holding her meals in hand, she says, “I’m so thankful for the hard work you all are doing to help us. We might seem like we’re fine, but inside we are struggling. The food feels good in our tummies, but the people being out here really boost my spirits even more.” Colleen’s words paint a picture of how powerful simple acts of care can be.

For Carlos Yancy, helping his community is personal. A third-generation resident of Newtown, he says, “Doing stuff like this is priceless. I’ve always worked in the community, but now I’m able to provide this space for these wonderful people to do their mission.” His bond with the neighborhood makes him more than just a volunteer; he is a familiar face bringing comfort and hope.

Sam Samples, Red Cross Disaster Program Manager for the Southeast Florida Chapter, shares why she is here. “I come out to connect with the community and bring food and hope,” she says. She knows that meeting people face-to-face, with warmth and sincerity, is the heart of community service.

This strong effort is made possible by many dedicated groups: the Sarasota County NAACP, Gulfcoast Community Foundation, BayFirst Bank, Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association, One More Child, and Suncoast Women of Action. Their teamwork shows that when a community bands together, they can accomplish more.

Even though these hurricanes bring hard times and widespread fatigue, the people of Sarasota prove that helping each other can turn struggle into hope and build a stronger community for the future.