supporting communities during times of crisis

Our Impact

Discover how the Starfish Disaster Recovery Team has made differences in communities impacted by natural disasters.

Properties assisted within Madison County, FL

In services provided to residents within Madison County, FL

Volunteer hours facilitated by Starfish Disaster Recovery

Stories of Recovery

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The Roberts

Hurricane Helene, Madison FL

After Hurricane Helene hit Madison County, The Roberts’ family sustained severe damage– three rooms had been destroyed after a large tree had fallen through the roof, mold was now prevalent in the home, and their car was totaled. Starfish immediately acted after seeing the tragedies the couple were facing. 

Starfish has assisted the couple with; 

  • Finding emergency housing.
  • Supplying a donated trailer.
  • Caseworkers provided.
  • Basic home repairs.

    After having their home demolished, The Roberts’ will soon be able to return to their lifelong property!

     

    Cherry Lake 4H Camp

    Hurricane Helene, Madison FL

    Following Hurricane Helene, Cherry Lake 4H Camp was devastated by damage. The 88 year old camp which stood as a remarkable legacy of youth development and outdoor education in Madison County, Florida was now out of commission. University of Florida reached out to Starfish Disaster Recovery seeking assistance with the clean-up of the property. Starfish was able to significantly benefit the camp through;

    • The removal of 32 downed trees.
    • Establishing partnerships with local professionals to carry out safe and efficient debris removal.
    • Coordinated a sustained two-month cleanup effort with AmeriCorps NCCC.
    • Secured permits to burn five large brush piles.

    Starfish Disaster Recovery provided over $220k+ in services to the beloved camp within Madison County.

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    Larry Browning

    Hurricane Helene, Madison FL

    Larry Browning has a large property within Madison County with more trees than you can count. After Hurricane Helene, the only route emergency services could take to his home was blocked by over 10 fallen trees. 

    Mr. Browning was unable to take care of the trees on his own due to disabilities limiting him from doing so. Starfish Disaster Recovery was able to assist him in this process by; 

    • Bucking up of over 15+ trees.
    • Clearing over a quarter of a mile of road. 
    • Piliing 5000+ lbs of brush.

    Because of assistance from Starfish Disaster Recovery, Mr. Browning is able to recieve help from emergency services through his access road. 

    Support + Sweat: The Heart of Starfish

    Recovery takes more than tools or paperwork- it takes both. Through compassionate casework and determined field crews, we help communities recover fully, inside and out.

    Casework

    Navigating the Path to Recovery

    Disasters don’t end when the storm passes- and survivors shouldn’t have to face the long road to recovery alone. That’s where our casework team comes in. We walk with individuals and families every step of the way, providing personalized, trauma-informed support to help them rebuild not just their homes, but their lives.

    Our caseworkers help with:

    • One-on-one recovery planning

    • Navigating FEMA, insurance, and other assistance

    • Finding temporary housing and essential resources

    • Emotional support and crisis navigation

    • Long-term recovery guidance and referrals

    We don’t just connect people to resources- we stay with them until they’re home again.

    Field Crews

    Rebuilding with Grit and Heart

    For many survivors, recovery starts with clearing the wreckage—and that’s where our work crew steps in. Armed with chainsaws, tarps, and compassion, they take on the toughest jobs with determination and care. From emergency response to long-term repairs, our crew brings real relief when it’s needed most.

    Our work crews help with:

    • Debris and tree removal

    • Emergency tarping and roof repair

    • Home gutting and mold remediation.

    • Coordinating volunteer teams

    • Restoring safety, access, and dignity

    Every nail we drive and every tree we clear brings a family one step closer to home.