As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1, Catholic Charities is still working to recover from the devastation left by last year’s storms. In Okeechobee, one such story stands out—a powerful example of resilience, partnership, and hope. A collaboration between Our Village Okeechobee and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach has brought hope and healing to an Okeechobee resident displaced by a tornado caused by Hurricane Milton. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Catholic Charities Disaster Case Manager Connie Williams, Cristian Suarez from Our Village, community generosity, and interagency teamwork, a new beginning was made possible for local survivor Cynthia.
Cynthia had been living in a trailer behind a relative’s home when the tornado struck. While unharmed, the storm destroyed the trailer, leaving her without a place to live. Through Connie Williams’ case management support, Catholic Charities identified Cynthia’s critical need for safe and stable housing. In partnership with Our Village Okeechobee, Catholic Charities facilitated the purchase of a gently used trailer for Cynthia. Funding for the trailer came through a three-way collaboration between Catholic Charities, a donation from the Community Foundation of Martin St. Lucie through Our Village, and Cynthia herself. “
“This collaboration shows the incredible things that happen when people and organizations step up together,” said Connie Williams. “Even as we prepare for a new hurricane season, we’re still walking with families like Cynthia’s who are rebuilding from the last one.”
Today, Cynthia stands proudly in front of her new trailer—thankful and filled with hope. “After the tornado, I didn’t know how I would ever get back on my feet,” she shared. “Thanks to Catholic Charities, Our Village, and the Community Foundation, I have a new place to call home.” Cynthia now volunteers regularly with Our Village, paying back for the blessings.
As hurricane season begins again, Our Village Okeechobee and Catholic Charities continue their work to support long-term disaster recovery, ensuring that no one is left behind when the storm passes.
