Hurricane Relief Grants Open for Hospitality and Tourism Workers in Manatee County
The Center of Anna Maria Island has announced the opening of the application period for hurricane relief grants, offering $250 to $500 to hospitality and tourism employees affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. Applications opened on November 14 and can be submitted online through The Center’s website.
The relief funds were raised during the Rock ‘N’ Support concert held on November 15 at the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Headlined by Lynyrd Skynyrd with Marcus King as the opening act, the event generated proceeds to support workers impacted by displacement, lost wages, evacuation expenses, or damages to homes and belongings.
Grants are available to employees who worked in the hospitality and tourism industries within specific Manatee County zip codes, including 34215 (Cortez), 34216 (Anna Maria), 34217 (Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach), 34218 (Bradenton Beach), and the Manatee County portion of 34228 (Longboat Key). Applicants must have been employed in these areas for at least six months before September 26 and hired no later than March 26.
Full-time employees averaging more than 25 hours per week are eligible for $500 grants, while part-time employees working fewer hours can receive $250. Eligibility requires submission of proof of employment, including pay stubs and valid identification, along with a description of hurricane-related hardships.
Eligible roles include restaurant staff such as cooks, servers, bartenders, and dishwashers, as well as hotel and event personnel like front desk staff, housekeepers, caterers, and watersports operators. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with funds distributed until they are depleted.
Applicants will be notified by email regarding the status of their submissions. Approved grants will be mailed or made available for pickup at the Shuckin’ Good Cause office at 6688 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton.
With funding limited, eligible workers are encouraged to apply promptly to secure assistance through this vital program.