The Rosado Family

Restoring Hope in Harlem Heights: A Community Effort to Rebuild After Hurricane Ian

In the small, mostly elderly community of Harlem Heights, the aftermath of Hurricane Ian left families like the Rosados feeling forgotten. While much of the relief efforts focused on beach areas and high-end housing, this neighborhood was overlooked. After a meeting with a local school, we were introduced to Virginia Rosado. Over the next three months, Cypress, alongside volunteers from across Florida and New Jersey, worked hard to help Virginia and her daughter return home. With support from Eckerd College and United Way, the project became a true community effort. Nine months after moving back in, Virginia passed away. In her final days, she expressed her gratitude for being able to spend her last moments in her beloved home. Today, her daughter continues to reside there.