A Jensen Beach family forced out of their home by historic flooding is looking for more permanent housing and money to rebuild. Lisa and Jeremy French, who have two young boys, said their goal is to return home.
Floodwater surrounded their neighborhood after heavy rain hit South Florida and the Treasure Coast, and residents used kayaks to get around and check on neighbors. Days later, much of the water has receded, but the damage remains. French said the family’s floorboards are outside, and the family said it was not safe to go back inside the house when WPTV returned for an update.
French said the flooding destroyed appliances, cabinets and every piece of furniture. The family is now trying to figure out how to pay for repairs while finding a place to live.
Martin County said the home sits near the Savannah Preserves, where excess water naturally flows from other flooded areas. French questions whether water moving into the preserve contributed to the flooding, noting that her home flooded days after the rain stopped. She said the county’s explanation is that it came from natural rain, but she pointed to heavy rain on Monday and Tuesday.
The Frenchs made their case before the Martin County Commission, where Lisa French said the family had nowhere to host Thanksgiving or spend Christmas. A Multi-Agency Resource Center at the Hoke Library in Jensen Beach is helping residents find assistance after the storm.
French said she worries that even if more aid becomes available, a significant financial gap could remain. The family says it has not given up hope of getting back home.
