Hurricane Ida brought devastating rainfall to Chester County, particularly Downingtown, where many people lost their homes and/or businesses due to flooding.

Among them, in the heart of the borough, is P.A.A.L. (Preparing Adolescents with Autism for Adult Life), a program for adolescents with moderate to severe autism that establishes a professional collaboration among the educational system, families, and the community.

When the leaders at Franklin Flood, a locally headquartered wholesaler of flood insurance, heard about the devastation P.A.A.L. endured — and learned of its under-coverage with flood insurance — they knew they had to help. Franklin Flood coordinated a visit with P.A.A.L. to tour the center, see the loss, and experience the destruction first-hand.

Franklin Flood owner Christopher Mazza, president Greg Devone, and vice president Cassandra Dalmas presented P.A.A.L. a check for $10,000 to help rebuild the center. Franklin was then gifted a banner created by the students, with their names displayed in beautiful colors, and the message “Thank You for Helping Us Put Our Puzzle Back Together” in the center. The puzzle pieces, of course, represent the mystery and complexity of autism.

The precious artwork has been framed and is now the centerpiece of Franklin Flood’s lobby.

Franklin Flood hopes that its donation will inspire other local organizations to donate to P.A.A.L. and bring awareness to its mission.