As many know, St. Croix was in the path of hurricane Maria on September 19th into the early morning of September 20th. Roofs were ripped off, old mahogany trees were uprooted, power poles and lines were tangled in the roads, yet our community’s compassion and care for one another has shown brightly through it all.
A group of neighbors removing debris from the road
Sometimes it’s easy to add up what is lost in a natural disaster by the numbers – how many power poles are down; how many blue roofs are needed; how many meals and bottles of water are distributed; how much funding is requested and granted. It’s not always as easy to quantify how much is gained. We are reminded daily of the amazing human spirit on and associated with St. Croix.
Seeing people come together to lend a helping hand and provide support in whatever way they know how has been heartwarming. This catastrophe has brought to light the kindness and compassion of which Crucians are capable. There are many uplifting stories that showcase who we are and the silver lining in it all. We have compiled a few of these short stories here.
No roof, no problem!
Our Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty colleague Kelly Odom has the heart of gold! At our first team meeting post-Maria, she walked into our office with a huge smile and hugs for everyone. We soon learned that she lost her roof and almost everything inside her home. Despite being roofless, Kelly continues to be positive. A friend of hers shared that Kelly was offering a hot shower to those who are without running water.
Free ice at The Courtyard
Ice is quite a commodity these days and The Courtyard is sharing the wealth. The juice and fitness studio in downtown Christiansted has opened its doors as a safe haven for anyone to come relax with free WIFI – and they’ll even fill your cooler with ice to take home.
Farm Fresh – For Free!
Yellow Door Farm has been offering people free greens when available to help keep fresh veggies in their diets. They were also part of the Sejah Farm and ARTfarm effort to send more than 1,800 lbs of fresh produce to St. Thomas and St. John after hurricane Irma.
A community dinner at Ziggy’s presented by Thomas Tharrington and friends
Coming Together as a Community
Thomas Tharrington and friends have been organizing free dinners for the community at Ziggy’s on Saturday evenings. Their goal: to bring a smile to everyone’s faces and keep spirits up! So far, they’ve served up spaghetti, pulled pork and a Thanksgiving feast. Others pitch in sides and desserts. Blue Water Terrace has also hosted a free community dinner.
Former Islanders Showing Support
People who are connected to St. Croix, but now live stateside, have shown an outpouring of support, many starting fundraisers to send much-needed supplies. Perhaps most notable is Tim Duncan’s fundraiser and subsequent visit to St. Croix delivering an entire plane of supplies.
We also found a story about two Duke graduate students, both from St. Croix, who spearheaded a relief drive for the USVI. Quick searches for St. Croix on youcaring.com and gofundme.com show multiple fundraisers to help those affected by the hurricane.
These are all reasons we are proud to be part of the St. Croix community!
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