As Surfside community members wait for news, they are inundated by hundreds of acts of kindness

So far, 17 families of Champlain residents have received $1,500 Visa gift cards so they can begin purchasing what they need, according to the group, which has partnered with BStrong, an initiative by reality TV star Bethenny Frankel. More than $230,000 had been raised as of Sunday. Capponi said the local group is able to meet directly with families, offering emotional support as well as putting them in touch with developers who have offered free furnished apartments.