January 22, 2025
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is facing significant challenges following the widespread and lasting impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In the wake of these natural disasters affecting our local area, attendance numbers have fallen short of projections, and the aquarium has had to make some difficult decisions to ensure we can continue our mission. Several positions at CMA have been placed on temporary furlough, and our leadership team has made salary reductions in an effort to reduce costs and navigate this uncertain time.
Despite these challenges, CMA remains committed to the mission of rescue, rehabilitation, release, and research of marine animals. The well-being of the animals as always remains our top priority, and we will continue to ensure they receive the food, care, and attention they need every day.
Through this trying time, we will continue to work towards securing financial support through strategic promotions, partnerships, and grant applications as well as pursuing assistance from FEMA and the Small Business Administration.
Our long-term plan for the future remains solid, with continued focus on conservation education and expanding marine animal programs. However, as a nonprofit organization we need support to continue the work we do, we need your help.
Help Support CMA
There are several ways you can help Clearwater Marine Aquarium whether you are part of our local or global community, visiting or supporting from far away.
- Visit CMA and your admission will support our mission!
- Buy a membership and show your support all year round.
- Donate and your contribution will allow us to rescue and provide care for animals in need.
Help support CMA today, so we can continue to save marine life tomorrow.
You can help support our animal care, rescue and recovery efforts by donating today!
Please contact donate@cmaquarium.org for information on making larger donations.
Donation Items Still Needed
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is seeking donations to replace vital equipment lost during Hurricane Helene. Life support systems, lab equipment, laundry machines, air compressors, and other essential tools were lost or damaged during the storm. Visit our wish list page to purchase an item today at https://www.gifthero.com/cmaquarium.
CMA is also accepting pre-owned items from our wish list for local donations. Email donate@cmaquarium.org for information on how to donate.
Please ship donated items to the following address:
Clearwater Marine Aquarium Warehouse
ATTN: Wishlist
1415 South MLK jr. Ave
Clearwater, FL 33756
We are so grateful for the love and support we’ve received following Hurricane Helene. Many of you have contributed to our fundraiser and donated items to help rebuild our facility and to continue to care for our animals. We couldn’t do this without your support!
All manatee activities authorized by USFWS and conducted under USFWS Permit No. MA66524C. All marine turtle footage taken in Florida was obtained with the approval of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) under conditions not harmful to marine turtles. Footage was acquired while conducting authorized conservation activities pursuant to FWC MTP-23/24-172.