The USTA Florida Foundation will reopen its Hurricane Relief Grant application on November 9, 2024, to provide support for tennis facilities impacted by hurricanes across the state. The application window remains open through December 20, 2024. Tennis facilities needing assistance with repairs can apply directly at USTA Florida’s grant application portal. 

The Hurricane Relief Grant program is structured as a reimbursement process, where facilities manage repairs upfront, then submit relevant documentation, such as receipts and paid invoices, for reimbursement upon completion of the work. This method empowers organizations to handle repairs on-site and receive financial support after the completion of qualifying repairs. 

Grant eligibility is designed to assist authorized representatives of facilities whose tennis courts were damaged in recent hurricanes. Qualifying facilities include those that are publicly accessible, however consideration will be given to private facilities if they include USTA-members and are regularly hosting USTA league events. Grant applications must be submitted by December 20, 2024, with the goal to complete repairs within eight months of the award notice. 

To apply, facilities should be prepared to submit essential documentation, including: 

• Photos of the damage 
• Insurance claim documentation, if applicable 
• Technical drawings and repair quotes 
• A current W9 form 
• Documentation of community programs and affected participants 

Facilities awarded grants are encouraged to provide a free or reduced-fee community tennis program as part of their recovery efforts, fostering a continued spirit of community engagement. While the application period is closing in December, formal reviews by the Board of Directors will take place in spring 2025. 

The USTA Florida Foundation has been dedicated to recovery efforts since launching the Hurricane Relief Fund in 2018. Through 2023, the Foundation raised and awarded over $500,000 to more than five facilities statewide. Through these grants, the Foundation continues to fulfill its mission of supporting and rebuilding Florida’s tennis infrastructure.