Yesterday, Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida's Central west coast as a Category 3 storm. With sustained winds of 120 mph at landfall, its strength diminished to a Category 1 storm as it moved inland across the state, leaving millions without power and a wake of destruction in its path.

Last week, Hurricane Helene, a deadly Category 4 storm, also made landfall in Florida. Helene caused widespread devastation across six states in the Southeastern U.S. and claimed more than 230 lives. Property losses from the storm are currently estimated to be more than $47 billion, according to CoreLogic. 

In the aftermath of these storms, the Trusted Choice® Relief Fund is continuing to accept donations and grant applications to help impacted independent insurance agencies and their staff. Whether you are donating to help agents or seeking financial assistance for recovery, the Trusted Choice Relief Fund can assist in providing critical support.

Funds provide Big “I" state associations and member agencies and brokers with financial support for immediate or ongoing needs when other resources are not available, filling the gap until other funding sources become accessible. The fund also provides insurance agents with supplies and resources to aid victims and surviving family members in their communities.

For those seeking assistance, please review the guidelines and complete the online application for funding.

If you would like to help, consider donating to the Trusted Choice Relief Fund.

Established by the IIAA Educational Foundation in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, the fund distributes cash grants to victims and surviving family members of natural disasters. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Olivia Overman is IA content editor.