Hurricane Beryl was a deadly and destructive tropical cyclone that impacted parts of the Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula, and the Gulf Coast in the United States in late June and early July 2024. It was the earliest-forming Category 5 hurricane on record. Hurricane Beryl broke many meteorological records for the months of June and July, primarily for formation and intensity.

Damage and casualties from the hurricane were widespread.  In the United States, the state of Texas experienced severe flooding and wind damage, with reports of at least 36 dead in the Houston region.  Additionally, the outer bands of the hurricane produced a prolific tornado outbreak, with tornadoes confirmed in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Kentucky, Indiana, New York, and Ontario.   As of August 27, a total of 70 fatalities have been confirmed, and preliminary damage estimates are more than US$6.86 billion.

HRA Melissa Cannon of TLDD Correctional Staffing sustained damage to her home as a result of Hurricane Beryl. They had holes in the roof, and broken windows,  and had to have the electrical re-wired. CPOF was there to assist her in her family’s time of need with a catastrophic assistance package.

Sergeant Taiwo Adeleke of Stringfellow Unit with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice also suffered damage to his family home as a result of Hurricane Beryl. He suffered roof damage and air conditioning damage was a result. He wrote the following after receiving an assistance package from the catastrophic assistance program.

“I appreciate the support of the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation for supporting my family and me
during the catastrophic event. I’ve attached the picture of my warden, Ebenezer Olowomeye, and my HR,
Ms. Eilleen Kliatchko, presenting the cheques.”