After more than a week of standing floodwater, homeowners near Hyline Drive in Jensen Beach are finally able to start cleaning their houses as the water slowly recedes. Martin County began pumping water out of the neighborhood on Monday, giving families a chance to assess damage and begin the long recovery process.
Homeowners start the hard work
Lisa French, whose home was submerged for several days, said the receding water means she can finally begin the difficult task of clearing out her property. “I mean, we’ve been underwater for a week,” French told reporters. When WPBF 25 News visited her home earlier, water was still standing inside, reaching more than a foot deep in some rooms.
Now the water is gone, but much of French’s belongings have been destroyed. Since early Wednesday morning, she, her husband, and several neighbors have been removing damaged drywall, tearing out the kitchen, and hauling ruined furniture and personal items into the front yard. “You know, you’re sitting there with your house full of water, sitting in the fact that you lost the entire home. But now we can actually move and work instead of think,” French said.
Other residents await lower water levels
Not everyone can start cleaning yet. Long‑time resident Susan Destafney, who has lived in the area for four decades, said she has never experienced anything like this. “We’ve lived in our home for 40 years. We’ve never seen the likes of this,” she remarked, noting that some parts of the neighborhood are still holding water.
Volunteer groups and a resource center step in
Community volunteers have quickly organized to assist those affected. Alaura Macpherson, who runs the local group Quit Messen With Jensen, said volunteers have been collecting cleaning supplies and other necessities for families. Macpherson is also coordinating a community fundraiser and meal on November 25 to raise money for flood victims. Local restaurants have pledged to donate food, and the event will serve as a resource hub connecting residents with contractors, cleanup services, and other recovery assistance.
“The community is what helps each other. We are a family,” Macpherson said.
County opens Multi‑Agency Resource Center
Martin County officials have opened a Multi‑Agency Resource Center at the Hoke Library in Jensen Beach. The center provides flood victims with information on available assistance, including state and federal aid, insurance guidance, and referrals to reputable cleanup contractors.
County emergency management director (name not provided) emphasized that the resource center is a one‑stop location for residents to get the help they need as the recovery effort continues.
Looking ahead
While the immediate crisis is easing, many homeowners face a long road to full restoration. Insurance claims are being processed, and contractors are scheduling repairs. The community’s collective response—neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers supplying supplies, and the county’s resource hub—illustrates the resilient spirit of Jensen Beach.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the county’s official channels for updates on additional assistance programs and upcoming community events.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
