Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1127311
STANDING IN THE GAP When communities are in their most vulnerable moments, Associa Cares offers relief. Every day people's homes are threatened by fires, floods, and other disasters. While some are well-prepared for the worst, many are unprepared and underinsured—making a full recovery difficult, if not impossible. Associa Cares is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization started by Associa in 2007 that provides support to those struck by qualifying natural or man-made disasters and are helping fill the gap left between insurance coverage and other relief efforts. "Facing something of this magnitude is devastating on many levels," wrote a Hurricane Michael survivor in a letter to Associa Cares. "Even with insurance, there are so many things not covered or considered, and many have nowhere to turn." When large-scale emergencies like hurricanes happen, Associa Cares finds those in need by leveraging Associa's nearly 200 branch offices. To date, their efforts have helped identify and provide aid to more than 2,600 families—each with their own unique story of loss and recovery. "I applied to FEMA and was turned down for aid because I had minimum homeowners' insurance," wrote one woman who had lost her home during one of California's most destructive wildfires. "I bought the little cabin in 1981, raised my boys, a horse, several dogs, cats, and myself there. I have decided to go back and rebuild on my little piece of paradise." Inspirational stories of people rebuilding their homes and their lives are made possible thanks to the generous contributions from Associa's employees, clients, and other partners. In total, Associa Cares has distributed more than $3.5 million to disaster victims across the United States and around the world since its inception. Assistance from Associa Cares primarily goes directly to individuals whose homes have been impacted by a disaster. This ground-level approach helps families with immediate and direct support as they struggle to meet their basic needs of housing, clothing, and food following such a disaster. While replacing every possession isn't always possible, the support provided by Associa Cares acts as a lifeline for recovering families—giving them a chance to figure out what's next. "With the donation from Associa Cares, we were able to catch our breath, process the situation, and start to get back on our feet," wrote a family after landfall of a hurricane in Leland, NC. If you or someone you know has been affected by a disaster and would like to request assistance, host an Associa Cares charity event, or make a donation. Please visit AssociaCares.com. 24