Sandy Roberts, a resident of Lake County, Florida, has finally returned to her newly rebuilt home after it was severely damaged by Hurricane Milton in October 2024. The hurricane brought over a foot of rain, causing significant flooding and damage to her property.
Roberts’ home, located near Emerald Lake, was uninhabitable due to mold and a damaged air conditioning unit after floodwaters receded. She sought refuge with her daughter, Patty, during the aftermath. The family reached out to Lake Support and Emergency Recovery (LASER), a local nonprofit dedicated to helping homeowners rebuild after natural disasters.
Brandi Martin, the executive director of LASER, explained that the organization assists with immediate needs such as debris removal and home repairs. However, the extent of damage to Roberts’ home exceeded their budget, leading them to collaborate with Rebuilt FL, a resource that provided the necessary support for the reconstruction.
The rebuilt home now stands 2.5 feet higher and includes tiedowns for wind protection, crucial for its mobile home structure. The air conditioning unit, previously vulnerable to flooding, is now elevated 42 inches off the ground. Additionally, the home has been made more accessible for Roberts, who uses a walker.
Roberts expressed her gratitude for the guidance and support provided by LASER and Rebuilt FL. Her daughter highlighted the importance of the assistance they received in navigating the rebuilding process.
Resources for Hurricane Recovery in Central Florida
Various organizations across Central Florida offer support for those affected by hurricanes. In Brevard County, residents can call 2-1-1 for assistance. Lake County residents can reach out to LASER, while Marion County offers resources through the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other local services. Osceola County residents can contact Osceola REDI and Team Rubicon for help with debris clearing and basic repairs. In Orange County, Catholic Charities and other groups provide long-term recovery support.
For more information on hurricane preparedness and recovery, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and community organizations.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
