A Love Letter to St. Pete + Surrounding Beaches in the Wake of Hurricane Helene

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Dear St. Pete,

Where do I even begin?

For over eight years, I’ve called this area home, and in those years, you’ve given me so much—sun-soaked days on your beautiful beaches, unforgettable moments with strangers who became family, and a sense of community so strong that I’ve always known this was where I was meant to be.

But today, my heart aches for you in ways I can’t quite put into words. Hurricane Helene has left a mark on you—one that we never wanted to see. Strangers, friends, and beloved businesses that make this place what it is are hurting.

Clearwater Beach, where I worked my first six years living here, looks like a completely different world. A place that had only faced minor damages during Irma is now unrecognizable. My old workplace is gone. The beaches, the heart of our coast, are forever changed.

I am endlessly grateful for my friends’ safety, but it is heartbreaking witnessing them lose everything—their homes, their belongings, and their jobs. Many local businesses are now facing an uphill battle to rebuild, and the road ahead will be long and difficult for them, too.

I feel incredibly fortunate that my home was spared, but that doesn’t erase the pain or helplessness I feel for everyone else. Every corner of this community has been touched by this storm. I keep asking myself, “What can I do? Where do I even start?” The truth is, I don’t have all the answers. But what I do know is that if there’s one thing this area has always had, it’s an unwavering sense of pride, resilience, and love for each other.

In the hardest of times, we stand together. We lift each other up, we rebuild, we come out even stronger. But I also know this is going to take time. This isn’t a quick fix. It’s going to take all of us—every single person—coming together to make this city and its surrounding areas whole again.

As I sit here trying to process the devastation, all I want to do is help. So I’m writing this as a starting point—a love letter to you, St. Pete, and to everyone who calls you home. To the businesses, the locals, and everyone affected by this storm: you are not alone. We’re in this together.

If you’re like me, and wondering how to help, I’ve gathered some resources and ways we can get involved. Whether it’s donating to local businesses, volunteering our time, or supporting each other however we can, now is the time to show the love that makes this place so special.

Together, we will rebuild. I know we will. Our beaches will once again be filled with laughter and sunsets. Our businesses will thrive, our friends will heal, and this place—our St. Pete—will shine even brighter.

Sending love and hope,
Destiny

While I write this love letter to St. Pete, my heart is with all of the beautiful beaches along this coast. These places mean the world to me, and seeing them devastated breaks my heart just the same.

If you’re a local business or individual in need of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to include you and share how the community can support you during this time!