Vermont will be experiencing a host of emotions as we recognize the upcoming one-year anniversary of Hurricane Irene that slammed our state last August 28, 2011. While the storm tore apart towns, battered landscapes, and broke hearts, it strangely created opportunities for giving, volunteering and actions which strengthened our communities. There have been episodes of success, signs of progress, yet ongoing needs and challenges being endured.
Roads and bridges were repaired in record time. Heroes emerged from fire, police, and medical teams. Individuals, children, schools, sports teams, clubs, and entire towns realized a new purpose in volunteering and power in fundraising.
For those who lost much, endured great expenses yet are healing from the storm, the date will forever mark a victory of resilience. The Stratton Foundation is proud to have raised over $450,000, reached out to 300 people and distributed over 75 percent of these funds, spanning 13 towns, to 48 families, 31 businesses and organizations to help repair, rebuild, and replace what was lost.
However, those who lost their entire homes and property are struggling to find a new normal as they continue to work through government bureaucracy. The anniversary will be a frustrating reminder that they are still waiting for FEMA Hazard Mitigation and state funding to close on their property sales. To ease the wait, the Stratton Foundation has advanced $160,000 to these families, but a
The Stratton Foundation must also wait to fulfill our promise to these families that they will receive the full assessed value of their properties.
So as you feel pride in your contribution, gratitude in the support provided by neighbors and friends, and share in the sadness of loss to your town or neighbors, know that the Stratton Foundation shares in these feelings as well.
The Stratton Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the donors, volunteers and event planners who dedicate their philanthropy to the Stratton Foundation.
Tammy Mosher
Executive Director, The Stratton Foundation
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