In October of last year, Hurricane Otis made a devastating impact on Acapulco, Mexico, hitting as a Category 5 storm with winds reaching 165 miles per hour, marking it as the most powerful hurricane to make landfall in the Eastern Pacific during the satellite era, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The aftermath of the hurricane was grim, affecting over 30,000 families and demolishing more than 4,000 structures, including homes, medical facilities, and other essential infrastructure. The destruction extended further as critical utility poles were knocked down, and vital communication lines were severed.
Among the affected areas were two Home Depot stores in the city. While one store near Acapulco Bay sustained minimal damage, the Diamante store remained closed for over three months before recently reopening, marking a significant milestone in the recovery process.
To support the 178 associates impacted and displaced by the disaster, the Homer Fund and Fondo Naranja, The Home Depot Foundation Mexico’s associate assistance program, collaborated to provide over $480,000 in aid. Furthermore, associates from the store support center rallied together to donate essential supplies like food and water.
Demonstrating solidarity with the broader community, The Home Depot Foundation (US) allocated $500,000 to TECHO, a nonprofit organization focused on alleviating poverty in Latin America and a longstanding partner of The Home Depot Foundation Mexico. These funds will contribute to the construction of 64 houses in areas devastated by Hurricane Otis.
Additionally, The Home Depot Mexico initiated a special fundraising campaign, pledging to match every peso donated by its vendors. The proceeds will go to TECHO and Construyendo AC to aid in the construction of over 40 additional houses. Ultimately, more than 100 new homes will be built, providing much-needed shelter to those affected.
The collaboration between The Home Depot Foundation and TECHO underscores their shared dedication to fostering sustainable solutions in vulnerable communities. Through fundraising initiatives, disaster relief efforts, and local volunteerism, both organizations are committed to nurturing resilient communities capable of withstanding and rebounding from adversity.
The Home Depot Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to both short-term emergency response and long-term recovery efforts in communities affected by natural disasters. To find out more, visit HomeDepotFoundation.org.
