Project Lift: A Community Response to Hurricane Milton’s Aftermath
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, which caused devastating tornadoes throughout Martin County, particularly in Port Salerno, support efforts have surged to assist residents left homeless. One such initiative is Project Lift, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing temporary housing for those affected. This project not only focuses on immediate housing solutions but also engages local youth in a hands-on approach to learning and mental health recovery.
Robert Zaccheo, CEO of Project Lift, outlines the initiative to construct tiny homes for those whose residences were damaged. Each structure, with a footprint of about 240 square feet and a total area of approximately 426 square feet, includes provisions for two bedrooms, catering to families displaced by the tornadoes.
The construction is not solely facilitated by seasoned professionals; rather, it incorporates the participation of local youth aged 14 to 25, providing them with vital skills while addressing a pressing community need. Zaccheo emphasizes the importance of this program, which employs six to ten distinct teams concentrating on the construction of these houses. Through this work, adolescents learn invaluable hands-on skills while contributing to the recovery of their community.
Among the key organizations working alongside Project Lift is Save Our Salerno, led by Casey Cass. Established less than two years ago, this nonprofit initially aimed to promote scholarships and community engagement through events. However, the rapid onset of destruction altered its course, driving the organization to quickly mobilize resources and assist homeowners affected by the tornadoes.
Save Our Salerno initiated efforts to provide immediate support, utilizing tarps, tools, and supplies to help residents secure their homes and begin repairs. Their partnership with Project Lift resulted in a focused endeavor to create tiny homes, ensuring that displaced individuals have a roof over their heads during the reconstruction of their properties.
The Financial Commitment Behind Housing Initiatives
The financial implications of building these tiny homes are significant. It costs Project Lift approximately $75,000 per year to construct each unit, which includes essential materials and labor. Moreover, fulfilling health department requirements for plumbing and electrical installations raises the cost to an estimated $110,000 to $115,000 to set each house on its respective property.
Despite these staggering expenses, both Zaccheo and Cass remain committed to improving the mental health of the youth involved in the project as well as providing much-needed support for the Port Salerno community. This multifaceted approach reflects the organization’s belief that focusing on the givers—those who volunteer and contribute—can foster personal growth alongside community recovery.
A Vision for the Future
Currently, there are two tiny homes completed in the New Monrovia neighborhood, with aspirations to increase this number, particularly in the Manatee Creek area. The ongoing funding proves critical to achieving these goals, allowing Project Lift to continue its work and expand its outreach.
Zaccheo’s vision is clear: to foster a community where every individual, especially youth, understands their role as contributors to society and learns to value their impact. He reflects on his own upbringing in a large family, recognizing the importance of community support throughout his life. As Project Lift and Save Our Salerno continue to make strides in the recovery process, they reinforce the message that together, the Port Salerno community can rebuild stronger than before.
Part 1/6:
Project Lift: A Community Response to Hurricane Milton’s Aftermath
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, which caused devastating tornadoes throughout Martin County, particularly in Port Salerno, support efforts have surged to assist residents left homeless. One such initiative is Project Lift, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing temporary housing for those affected. This project not only focuses on immediate housing solutions but also engages local youth in a hands-on approach to learning and mental health recovery.
A Closer Look at Temporary Housing Solutions
Part 2/6:
Robert Zaccheo, CEO of Project Lift, outlines the initiative to construct tiny homes for those whose residences were damaged. Each structure, with a footprint of about 240 square feet and a total area of approximately 426 square feet, includes provisions for two bedrooms, catering to families displaced by the tornadoes.
The construction is not solely facilitated by seasoned professionals; rather, it incorporates the participation of local youth aged 14 to 25, providing them with vital skills while addressing a pressing community need. Zaccheo emphasizes the importance of this program, which employs six to ten distinct teams concentrating on the construction of these houses. Through this work, adolescents learn invaluable hands-on skills while contributing to the recovery of their community.
Part 3/6:
The Role of Save Our Salerno
Among the key organizations working alongside Project Lift is Save Our Salerno, led by Casey Cass. Established less than two years ago, this nonprofit initially aimed to promote scholarships and community engagement through events. However, the rapid onset of destruction altered its course, driving the organization to quickly mobilize resources and assist homeowners affected by the tornadoes.
Save Our Salerno initiated efforts to provide immediate support, utilizing tarps, tools, and supplies to help residents secure their homes and begin repairs. Their partnership with Project Lift resulted in a focused endeavor to create tiny homes, ensuring that displaced individuals have a roof over their heads during the reconstruction of their properties.
Part 4/6:
The Financial Commitment Behind Housing Initiatives
The financial implications of building these tiny homes are significant. It costs Project Lift approximately $75,000 per year to construct each unit, which includes essential materials and labor. Moreover, fulfilling health department requirements for plumbing and electrical installations raises the cost to an estimated $110,000 to $115,000 to set each house on its respective property.
Part 5/6:
Despite these staggering expenses, both Zaccheo and Cass remain committed to improving the mental health of the youth involved in the project as well as providing much-needed support for the Port Salerno community. This multifaceted approach reflects the organization’s belief that focusing on the givers—those who volunteer and contribute—can foster personal growth alongside community recovery.
A Vision for the Future
Currently, there are two tiny homes completed in the New Monrovia neighborhood, with aspirations to increase this number, particularly in the Manatee Creek area. The ongoing funding proves critical to achieving these goals, allowing Project Lift to continue its work and expand its outreach.
Part 6/6:
Zaccheo’s vision is clear: to foster a community where every individual, especially youth, understands their role as contributors to society and learns to value their impact. He reflects on his own upbringing in a large family, recognizing the importance of community support throughout his life. As Project Lift and Save Our Salerno continue to make strides in the recovery process, they reinforce the message that together, the Port Salerno community can rebuild stronger than before.