October 12, 2022
Dear team members,
Recently Hurricane Ian hit Florida with great destruction. Our heart breaks for the devastation of Fort Myers, Cape Coral, much of Southwest Florida and in the homes of our friends and family. The aftermath of this hurricane is heartbreaking.
The whole Westminster Communities of Florida family was affected, we were forced to evacuate seven communities from Bradenton, Jacksonville, Sarasota and St. Petersburg. Many team members traveled the state to evacuate with the residents we serve, and others sheltered in place during the storm in Central and North Florida.
Thank you for everything that you did to support the residents and each other. Your service to Westminster and the Mission of our organization was of the very highest caliber. Throughout the storm, we continued to serve the residents. At critical moments, every team member was involved, from nursing support to dining services, lifestyle and wellness to maintenance, housekeeping and more. Your tireless efforts before, during and after the storm provided for the safety and security of all residents.
We are thankful that our communities, the residents, and all of you are now safe and sound. Despite the destruction all around us, life is returning to normal. Now the hard work of recovery begins. Some of you have experienced the damage to your own homes or those of friends and family. Others have been emotionally or physically affected by this storm. Please offer the blessing of grace to yourselves, the residents, and your fellow team members as we heal and recover.
Westminster is truly blessed to have the best team members. You are why the persons we serve have chosen to live in one of our communities!
Thank you for going above and beyond to help us fulfill our Mission, not only during Ian’s impact, but each and every day.
Sincerely,
Garry D. Hennis
Chief Operating Officer
