FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Press Release) Largo, FLA – November 25, 2024 – Pinellas Education Foundation is proud to announce providing $1.6 million in support and resources to Pinellas County Schools (PCS) to aid in the recovery of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Pinellas Education Foundation launched a Hurricane Relief Campaign immediately following the first storm to provide multifaceted support to students, teachers, and PCS employees. The Foundation raised over $1 million in donations. Recognizing the immense need, the Foundation’s Board of Directors added $600,000 from the Foundation’s reserves, bringing the total support thus far to $1.6 million.

Pinellas Education Foundation used a majority of funds to distribute financial assistance to PCS employees personally affected by the storms to speed recovery. The Foundation created an application process with award amounts determined by the severity of damage and needs. Awards ranged from $500 to $5,000. To date, over 500 PCS employees have received financial assistance, and awards will continue until all funds are exhausted.

PCS is the 9th largest Florida school district, serves over 91,000 students, and stands as the largest employer in Pinellas County. The Foundation believes every district employee provides the essential care and support students need to thrive academically and personally. From the bus driver who ensures safe transportation to school, to the cafeteria worker who provides a hot meal to eat, to the front office employees greeting students, to the teachers delivering engaging lessons, every PCS employee is essential in fostering student well-being and academic achievements.

“Everything we do at Pinellas Education Foundation is centered around increasing student achievement and outcomes. We learned about staff members who lost their homes and lost their vehicles, but still came to work for the students they serve,” said Kim Jowell, CEO of Pinellas Education Foundation. “We felt compelled to provide financial support to district employees who were impacted by the storms in hopes this would relieve one point of pressure for them, so they could focus on their well-being and being present with students as best they could. We are grateful for the generosity of our donors and partners who made our efforts possible.”

The Foundation has received an outpouring of gratitude from PCS employees since financial assistance distribution has begun. One PCS teacher said, “As an educator, it is heartwarming to
see how our local community, especially groups like yours, come together in times of need. Your support has reminded me of the incredible strength and compassion within our community, and I am deeply touched by the efforts you have made to help me and others during this challenging time.”

Additional Hurricane Relief Initiatives:

• Student Support: Within two business days of Hurricane Helene, the Foundation sourced
  bulk school supplies with the help of their partner, Hillsborough Education Foundation. Foundation staff delivered the supplies to new school sites for displaced students at Madeira Beach Fundamental K-8 and Gulf Beaches Elementary, ensuring timely delivery before students returned to school. Following Hurricane Milton, requests for supplies and uniforms increased significantly. All requests received were fulfilled.
• Teacher Support: The Foundation committed to replacing personal items lost in hurricane-damaged classrooms from the two schools heavily damaged by Hurricane Helene. Thousands of items have been purchased and delivered directly to teachers’ schools, and this effort will continue until all requests are fulfilled or funds are exhausted.

About Pinellas Education Foundation:

Established in 1986, Pinellas Education Foundation is a nationally recognized, dynamic nonprofit organization committed to transforming students’ lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential, and providing teachers with the resources they need to excel in the classroom. Through innovative initiatives, a strategic partnership with Pinellas County Schools, and collaboration with community partners, we work tirelessly to accelerate educational achievement for all students. With a comprehensive approach to education, our programs cover the bookends of learning, beginning with an emphasis on literacy and continuing through college and career readiness. Improving outcomes, especially for students with the greatest achievement gaps, is pivotal to our work. Our commitment to quality education spans the entire spectrum, and we are constantly evolving to address the ever-changing needs of students and teachers. To learn more, visit pinellaseducation.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kate Smith
Chief Communications Officer
Pinellas Education Foundation
Office: 727-588-4816, Ext. 2128
[email protected]