Restaurants and shops stepped up to help support those affected by Hurricane Irma. Hundreds came to 5th Avenue South in Naples to shop, eat, and drink to raise money for Irma relief.
“I noticed the streets are getting fuller right now, “ said Mary Clum, who lives right around the corner from all the restaurants in downtown Naples.
The 5th Avenue South Business Improvement District was able to get back on their feet after the hurricane swept through Collier county and the rest of the Sunshine state.
“Ready and open for business,” said Nancy Kearns, one of the organizers of the Survivor Irma event. “The coast is clear,” she added.
5th Avenue South was full of people instead of the winds and rains that whipped around during Irma.
“It is really hard to believe it’s only been a month,” said Christine Ferguson, who made the trip from Cape Coral.
The goal for the night was to have special activities around the busy street to aid local Irma relief efforts.
“A lot of people are still struggling,” said Clum.
One of the special promotions were blue t-shirts with a heart over Naples. The proceeds all go to help hurricane victims in other parts of Collier county.
“Everglades City got annihilated,” said Kerns. “I know people who lost their homes and restaurants,” she added.
Some of the other fundraisers included a photo booth, live music, and special cocktails.
“Restaurants are serving hurricane drinks,” said Kerns.
Kerns and the rest of the women wearing blue shirts hoping Naples continues to step up.
“I think people came together and worked for each other and helped each other,” said Clum.
