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How to Help Families Displaced by Hurricane Ian

If you have an open room or home, you can provide short-term rentals through these credible sites.

BY October 9, 2022
(Photo courtesy iStock/marchello74)

Throughout Southwest Florida, many residents don’t have a place to live after Hurricane Ian. Thousands of homes were heavily damaged, while others were completely destroyed by the storm. People are already helping victims get furniture, food and other supplies. But there’s a big need for temporary housing for individuals and families.

Recognizing that in our seasonal community many homes and condos sit empty for months, groups have sprung to action and created platforms for short-term rentals that are vetted to avoid overpricing and scams. From owners Airbnb rentals, to spare bedrooms to snowbird condos, many locals have already opened their doors to those in need in our community. But much more housing is needed. If you have a room or entire home that can be used to house displaced locals in Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Punta Gorda or elsewhere in the region, connect with one of these organizations to list your place. If you’re in need of housing, these sites can help you find a safe place to call home while you rebuild.

Airbnb: Committed $5 million to provide free, temporary housing; working through partner nonprofits to identify individuals in need.

Expedia and Visit Florida: Their Emergency Activations Module provides real-time availability of hotels throughout Florida.

Hurricane Homes: Founded by realtor associations; all ad revenue collected on the site goes toward relief funds.

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