Selby Foundation Grant Assists Rebuild of Lighthouse Center After Hurricane Damage
For Immediate Release
June 7, 2023
Amanda Just, Communications Specialist
Amanda.Just@LighthouseEducationCenter.org 

Sarasota, FL - The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation has awarded a $40,000 grant to Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center to assist the non-profit organization in repairing its building after damages from Hurricane Ian. 

Wind and water from the September 2022 storm caused damage from the second floor to the main floor of the Lighthouse building at 7318 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 34243, just 1.5 miles north of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. The entire first floor had water damage in the drywall, the flooring, and the ceilings; all need to be replaced. The building has been closed since the storm, however Lighthouse services have continued in temporary locations around the community, as well as remotely and in the homes of its visually impaired clients.

“We are very grateful to The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation for this generous grant to help with the repairs of our facility,” said Lighthouse CEO, Lisa Howard. “We have plans to improve the interior of the building that will make it more conducive to classroom instruction of assistive technology and daily living activities, as well as creating a large space for support groups and book clubs to gather. We look forward to welcoming clients and the community back to the Lighthouse.” 

Lighthouse is currently operating out of Goodwill Manasota offices at 1506 Bayshore Gardens Parkway in Bradenton while repairs are underway. The $40,000 grant from Selby Foundation will underwrite a portion of the repair costs not covered by insurance. 

About Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center: Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center is the only nationally accredited, private, non-profit agency providing rehabilitation training to blind and visually impaired individuals of all ages residing in a five county region that includes Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte and Highlands. The Lighthouse offers training and rehabilitation to foster independence, productivity, and improved quality of life. For more information, please visit www.lighthouseeducationcenter.org

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