News

Following the devastation of Hurricane Ian, the marine industry has offered its support to those affected across Florida in an effort to assist the community in returning to some sense of normalcy. As part of these efforts, Old Salt Fishing Foundation, Marine Industries Association and Annapolis Boat Shows “Hands Across the Transom Hurricane Relief Fund” have come together to create the Hurricane Ian Marine Industry Relief Fund. The group is collecting funds to help individuals working in the marine trades on Southwest Florida Waters, recover from the ravages of Hurricane Ian.

Thanks to the support of the marine industry, the fund has surpassed $60,000 in donations and applications for funding are now available. Minimum payments of $500.00 will be made to individuals approved by the committee. Online applications may be accessed here.

“The most gratifying phase of this effort is beginning,” said Marine Industry Association Executive Director John Good. “Applications for assistance are now available. It is a simple application, reviews will be a quick process, and checks will be sent with little delay. This is open to anyone who makes their living on the water who has been impacted by Hurricane Ian.”

Additional resources made available to the marine industry and those in need include:

Captains for Clean Water: Hurricane Ian Relief Fund - Captains for Clean Water have been boots on the ground from the get-go. Despite the loss of the CFCW office and many members’ homes, these captains and guides have been working around the clock - navigating the waters for rescue missions, setting up drop-off locations in Eastern Florida, and getting locals the supplies they need.

Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida - A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to protect our outstanding animals and plants and the lands and waters they need to survive. The foundation works closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and many other public and private partners. They are raising money through their employee assistance fund to provide emergency housing, food, water, and other necessities to FWC employees that were impacted by Hurricane Ian.

Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund - Professional, recreational angling is often the cornerstone of coastal economies, and the ability for these small businesses to get back on their feet after natural disasters like Ian, is critical. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) and Costa Sunglasses created WARF in 2017 to provide financial aid to local charter captains, guides, and outfitters in the wake of major natural disasters.

Please visit FloridaDisaster.org for the latest on the state’s response actions and FloridaDisaster.biz for emergency resources for businesses.

Additional resources previously provided by the NMMA may be accessed here.

NMMA is closely monitoring the legislative landscape and appropriations of funds to help small businesses and those who may be in need of assistance. The Government Relations team will share more information as it becomes available.

 

NMMA members impacted by Ian are encouraged to reach out to NMMA via its communications email, [email protected].