Tampa, FL (November 22, 2024) – In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which have deeply impacted communities across the region, Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) mobilized swiftly to support students, teachers, and schools in need. With widespread damage leaving many without the essential resources and supplies necessary for a successful school year, HEF has taken decisive action to meet urgent needs.
A Rapid Response
“When we witnessed the heartbreaking impact these storms had on our students, teachers, and schools here in Hillsborough County, we knew we couldn’t stand by,” said Anna Corman, President and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “The devastation demanded immediate action—not just to restore what was lost but to offer hope, stability, and a sense of community during an incredibly challenging time.”
HEF quickly established a Hurricane Relief Fund, collaborating with dedicated donors and community partners to raise over $1.3 million to date. The funds are being directed to meet critical needs across impacted schools and for school district employees who have suffered significant personal losses.
How We’re Providing Support
Support for Students
HEF has already distributed nearly 500 Backpack Kits filled with core school supplies essential for students to engage in learning, with another 500 kits set to be distributed in the coming weeks. Requests for these kits are submitted by school administrators or social workers, with kits compiled by HEF staff and volunteers.
Support for Teachers and Staff
The hurricanes have had a devastating impact on many educators and support staff, with hundreds of employees already confirmed as displaced due to flooding. As the impact of Hurricane Milton continues to be assessed, HEF anticipates further widespread needs. To support these employees, HEF established a Hurricane Relief Fund specifically to aid those who have lost their homes, experienced significant damage or flooding, or lost primary vehicles. Financial support will assist with temporary housing, repairs, deductibles, and the replacement of personal items. HEF has received over 700 applications for financial assistance to date and is working as quickly as possible to review and process requests.
Support for Schools
Approximately 20 schools experienced flooding, while others suffered storm-related damage. Many teachers lost classroom supplies, furniture, and teaching materials. To address these losses, HEF has replaced nearly $30,000 worth of elementary classroom rugs across 10 schools and provided $50,000 in essential school supplies, including whiteboard markers, copy paper, and bulletin boards. Additional supplies continue to be distributed through HEF’s Teaching Tools Resource Center, a free store for teachers to get school supplies and classroom materials.
An Incredible Community Response
HEF’s relief efforts have been made possible through the generous support of key donors, including the Lightning Foundation, Jarcarlene Foundation, Helios Education Foundation, Florida Disaster Fund/Volunteer Florida, Suncoast Credit Union, Spurlino Foundation, Generate, RaceTrac, Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Rays, Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, and numerous individual donors.
“Our mission has always been to ensure that students and teachers in Hillsborough County have the resources they need to thrive, and the damage caused by these hurricanes has only deepened our commitment,” said Anna Corman. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors and partners—whether through financial contributions, donated supplies, or volunteer time—we’ve been able to provide immediate relief and resources to help students, teachers, and schools begin the process of rebuilding and moving forward.”
Statement from Van Ayres, Superintendent, Hillsborough County Public Schools
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Hillsborough Education Foundation for stepping up to support our students, teachers, and schools after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Their generosity and quick action made a real difference during a tough time, helping us get back on track and focus on what matters most—our students’ education. Thank you for being such an important partner for our schools and in our community.”
About Hillsborough Education Foundation
Every child deserves access to the best possible education — and the teachers, tools and trusted mentors they need to succeed. But today, this fundamental right remains out of reach for too many young people in our community. Hillsborough Education Foundation works to ensure every student in Hillsborough County receives an outstanding public education that equips them for a fulfilling future. By unlocking opportunities for students, investing in teachers, and strengthening public schools, we’ll make Hillsborough County Public Schools one of the best places to learn and teach, where 100% of students graduate with the ability to pursue anything they can dream. Learn more and join us at educationfoundation.com.
Updated 12/19/2024 to reflect new dollar amount raised.
