Community Foundation & Habitat Team Up to Rebuild for Hurricane Survivors
NAPLES —A partnership between the Collier Community Foundation and Habitat for Humanity of Collier County has led to the construction of a new, elevated home for Warren and Diane Segal, Naples residents who lost their home during Hurricane Ian.
The Segals’ home sustained extensive flood damage during the storm, leaving it uninhabitable. Without flood insurance, the couple had limited options for recovery. They searched for resources to rebuild after the hurricane and later qualified for Habitat Collier’s Raze, Raise, Rebuild initiative, which helps families replace damaged homes with safer, elevated structures designed to withstand future storms.
“This project reflects the impact of strong community partnerships in providing long-term solutions after disasters like Hurricane Ian,” says Habitat Collier CEO, Rev. Lisa Lefkow. “By working together, we’re not only rebuilding homes—we’re restoring stability and security for families who need it most.”
Funding for the rebuild included a $200,000 grant from the Collier Community Foundation, which significantly reduced construction costs. The Segals now own a newly built, elevated home and are repaying a small, interest-free mortgage through Habitat Collier.
The new home sits 10 feet above sea level and was built to meet current storm-resilience standards. Habitat Collier and the Collier Community Foundation continue to support disaster recovery efforts through collaborative housing initiatives.
About Habitat for Humanity of Collier County
Habitat for Humanity of Collier County empowers struggling families to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. As one of the oldest and most successful Habitat affiliates in the nation, Habitat Collier has served the needs of Collier County’s workforce for more than 45 years, building homes in partnership with families, volunteers and donors, and then selling them with an affordable mortgage. For more information, visit HabitatCollier.org.
About the Collier Community Foundation:
Celebrating 40 years of empowering local philanthropy, the Collier Community Foundation® is a trusted, tax-exempt, public charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the community through impactful giving. Established in 1985, the Foundation manages over 900 donor funds, collaborates with hundreds of nonprofits, and has awarded over $387 million in grants and scholarships to support vital programs and initiatives. By connecting generosity with community needs, the Collier Community Foundation drives informed giving and delivers powerful results. To learn more, visit colliercf.org or call 239-649-5000.