We were able to gain physical access to the OLPH grounds and buildings on October 9, nearly 11 days after Hurricane Ian struck on September 28, 2022. Our first step was to clear roads to allow for trucks and remediation teams to safely enter our grounds. Professional remediation teams arrived on October 12 to begin removing contents, packing what could be salvaged, tearing out water-damaged drywall, and setting up large fans and aeration machines to accelerate the drying out process. Remediation completed in November 2022.

In December 2022, the Diocese defined the rebuild budget and obtained contractor bids. The winning contractor was secured and reconstruction work commenced on January 16, 2023.

Plumbing and electrical repair was completed at the end of February. March and April was filled with insulation installation, new drywall in all the buildings, a slight reconfiguration to the Offices and Kitchen, as well as ordering of all new commercial kitchen equipment. In addition, the villa room design and paint colors were approved by the Diocese and our front gates were repaired.

Huge progress has been made, as we prepared for our first small group retreat (Totus Tuus) that arrived on July 1. During May and June, the exterior of all buildings were painted, Villa I and II were completed and furnished, and new plantings were installed in front of the Conference Center, Dining Hall, and Villa II.

July brought the delivery of kitchen equipment and the completion of the Office, Gift Shop, and Conference Center. By mid-August, Villa III, Villa IV, and the Dining Room will be completed. Work on the Chapel began in mid-July and is scheduled to be completed by August 31. OLPH will be fully operational by September 5, 2023 - nearly one year after Hurricane Ian's visit. Just in time... our first large group arrives on September 8!

Our volunteers have been TREMENDOUS in helping with everything from furniture assembly, decorating, fan and light installation, cleaning and organizing, and plantings. THANK YOU!

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