ASA Provides Funds for Florida Relief

Many still needing assistance

On behalf of the American Sportfishing Association, we extend our deepest sympathies to those that were affected by Hurricane Ian. In response, the association will be making donations to the organizations listed below that are specifically helping the sportfishing community recover from the hurricane. We encourage others to do the same. We have provided descriptions of these organizations and links to their websites. In addition, we have listed a few other organizations that are also supporting general relief efforts. Together let’s show our support and help rebuild the sportfishing community in Southwest Florida.

Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida – A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to protect our outstanding animals and plants and the lands and waters they need to survive. The foundation works closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and many other public and private partners. They are raising money through their employee assistance fund to provide emergency housing, food, water, and other necessities to FWC employees that were impacted by Hurricane Ian.

Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund – Professional, recreational angling is often the cornerstone of coastal economies, and the ability for these small businesses to get back on their feet after natural disasters like Ian, is critical. The IGFA (International Game Fish Association) and Costa Sunglasses created WARF in 2017 to provide financial aid to local charter captains, guides, and outfitters in the wake of major natural disasters. To date, the WARF has distributed a total of $225,000 to recreational angling groups.

Captains for Clean Water: Hurricane Ian Relief Fund – Captains for Clean Water have been boots on the ground from the get-go. Despite the loss of the CFCW office and many members’ homes, these captains and guides have been working around the clock – navigating the waters for rescue missions, setting up drop-off locations in Eastern Florida, and getting locals the supplies they need.

Groups accepting donations for general recovery efforts include:

The Florida Disaster Fund is a Florida-specific fund that allows money to go where resources are needed:

The American Red Cross of Central Florida is offering support to those affected by Hurricane Ian. They provide shelter and disaster relief.