Published on: October 15, 2024, 09:37h.
Last updated on: October 15, 2024, 09:44h.
Hard Rock International and the Seminole Tribe of Florida have donated $1 million for Hurricane Milton and Helene relief efforts.
Hard Rock and Seminole leaders announced a $1 million commitment to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts for communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Helene, a Category 4 hurricane, struck Florida’s Big Bend on September 26.
The devastating storm caused around $40 billion in damage and resulted in over 250 deaths, making it the deadliest hurricane to hit the mainland United States since Katrina in 2005. Helene caused widespread destruction across the southeast region.
Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm, made landfall near Tampa, causing over $30 billion in damage and at least 27 deaths.
Hard Rock in Challenging Times
Hard Rock operates 313 locations in 74 countries and manages 16 casinos in the US and Dominican Republic.
Hard Rock’s largest gaming market is in Florida, where it operates several casinos. The Seminole Tribe’s Tampa property was on high alert when Hurricane Milton approached.
Fortunately, the impact of Hurricane Milton near Tampa was not as severe as expected. The casino resort resumed operations shortly after the storm passed. However, the Seminoles acknowledged the less fortunate individuals affected by the hurricanes.
The Seminole Tribe of Florida has always been committed to assisting our neighbors during crises,” said Marcellus Osceola Jr., chair of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. “We are grateful to Governor Ron DeSantis for his collaboration in supporting our communities during this critical period. With the dedication of our teams across Florida, we can make a meaningful difference for those in need after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Apart from the financial donation, Hard Rock Tampa has provided shelter for over 1,000 displaced individuals in its Event Center. The shelter offers essential needs such as meals and medical assistance.
“By opening our doors to displaced families in Tampa and offering financial support, we are beginning our ongoing commitment to the recovery efforts,” stated Jim Allen, chair of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming.
Support Program Funding
The $1 million donation will support the relief efforts of the Red Cross and World Central Kitchen in Florida and the Carolinas.
World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef Jose Andres, provides meals for evacuees and first responders with the help of Chef Corps members and local restaurants.
The Red Cross is focused on providing shelter and clean water to those affected by the hurricanes, with nearly 2,000 Red Cross volunteers working on the frontlines of recovery.
“We appreciate the tremendous work done by our partners at World Central Kitchen and American Red Cross worldwide,” concluded Allen.