Little Haiti, Miami (Le Floridien) — On Wednesday, February 19, the Little Haiti Cultural Center transformed into a vibrant hub of learning and empowerment as residents gathered for the “Florida Power to Save” event—a dynamic initiative by Florida Power Light dedicated to promoting energy efficiency and cost savings. From 10 AM to 1 AM, roughly two hundred participants engaged in a series of informative sessions designed to simplify the path toward reduced energy consumption and a greener lifestyle.
Empowering Through Energy Efficiency
Representatives from Florida Power Light captivated the audience with dynamic presentations that unraveled the complexities of the Florida Power to Save program. They demonstrated how practical, everyday energy-saving measures—from minor behavioral adjustments to the integration of advanced energy-efficient technologies—can lead not only to lower monthly bills but also to a more sustainable community overall. The team provided actionable guidance, emphasizing that every household could benefit from adopting these energy-smart practices.
Haitian-American Darlyne Jean-Charles, Senior Community Relations Specialist for Miami-Dade and Broward Counties played a pivotal role in bridging the program with the Haitian community. Speaking in Creole, she explained the nuances of the initiative to Le Floridien, ensuring that local residents understood how to register—either on-site or online—and fully benefit from the program.
The registration process itself was straightforward. Participants could sign up on the spot, after which a dedicated Florida Power Light representative would schedule a personalized home visit. During these visits, experts assessed each household’s energy use—identifying outdated appliances, inefficient lighting, and insulation issues—before offering tailored recommendations, including upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or utilizing free tools, such as installing smart thermostats, to help residents save. This personalized approach not only promised to lower electricity bills but also empowered residents with the tools and knowledge to foster long-term energy sustainability.
A Collaborative Community Effort
The event’s success was further bolstered by the presence of key community partners. Representatives from Sant La Haitian Neighborhood, Miami-Dade Office of Resilience, Miami-Dade Community Action Agency, Jessie Trice Community Health System, Farm Share and the Salvation Army highlighted their ongoing efforts to support local residents. In particular, the Salvation Army showcased its “FPL-Care to Share & TSA Emergency Assistance” program, a critical resource designed to help low-income households manage their electricity bills and ensure that every home remains lit during challenging times.
Reaching the Heart of the Haitian Community
Strategic outreach played a crucial role in the day’s attendance. Organizers utilized Creole-language radio broadcasts and leveraged Le Floridien newspaper to ensure that the message resonated within Florida’s vibrant Haitian community. The impressive turnout on a weekday morning underscored the effectiveness of this targeted communication strategy, with organizers expressing deep satisfaction at the level of community engagement.
The “Florida Power Save” event not only illuminated practical energy-saving measures but also reinforced the strength of community collaboration. Florida Power Light, in partnership with local organizations, is committed to paving the way for a more energy-efficient future—one that champions inclusivity and supports diverse community groups. The enthusiastic response from participants serves as a testament to the power of proactive outreach in driving meaningful, sustainable change for households and the community at large.
