Lightning Foundation Announces Recipients of $2 Million Hurricane Helene Relief Grant

TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Lightning today announced the priority areas for the Lightning Foundation’s $2 million grant dedicated to Hurricane Helene relief and recovery. Additionally, after being inspired by the team’s generosity, Lightning Community Heroes Celia and Jim Ferman pledged an additional $1 million on behalf of Ferman Motor Car Company Inc.

This collective $3 million will directly benefit Coast Guard officers, police officers, firefighters, sheriff’s officers and teachers in the Tampa Bay area, ensuring that those who continue to serve our community are supported in their efforts recovery.

“We are honored to support the first responders and teachers affected by this devastating storm,” said Jeff Vinik. “These people are the backbone of our community and it is crucial that we stand with them as they rebuild. We hope this grant will provide significant relief and reassure them that they will not face this recovery alone.

The combined funding will be distributed in collaboration with local community partners to assist sworn officers, law enforcement deputies and teachers who lost their homes or suffered catastrophic damage during Hurricane Helene.

“Our hearts are broken for those who are so hard hit by this storm and its aftermath,” said Jim Ferman, leader of the multigenerational automotive organization Ferman. “We hope, in our own way, to support first responders and community leaders who have put their own needs aside to be on the front lines and help others in our community.”

The Tampa Bay Lightning remains steadfast in its commitment to helping the community in times of need and the organization will continue to explore ways to further support local relief and recovery initiatives.