FLORIDA KEYS -- Recovery has been slow in the Florida Keys since Hurricane Irma brought destruction to the area, leveling neighborhoods and disrupting life in a place famous for its laid back living.

"All I can say is it's been the grace of God getting us through," said Erika Logan, one of thousands of storm victims.

One year after Hurricane Irma, Logan's house remains a work in progress. There is a huge hole in her roof and her handyman, Richard Wilson, said the inside had to be gutted because of flood damage.

"We just rebuild and start all over again," said Wilson.

For many hurricane victims, the re-building hasn't been swift or easy.

"I think we're almost to the half-way mark," said Stephanie Kaple, Chairman of the Monroe County Long Term Recovery Group.

"It's encouraging to be where we are today. It's still a little bit discouraging because we're not fixed."

Issues with insurance claims and slow federal funding are being blamed, but those aren't the only problems.

"A lot of my friends had to move out and leave. There's nowhere for them to rent, nothing affordable. Everything is $2,500-$3,000," said Vernon Siegel, whose home was damaged in the storm.

Recovery workers said if there's any silver lining to all of this, it's that Irma highlighted the need for more affordable housing in the Keys. And there is some new home construction underway.

It's about small victories, like a 760-square-foot cottage built by the Florida Keys Community Land Trust.

"They said a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step. We're starting with one house, we're starting with one step," said Marianne Custano, architect of the project.

Construction is underway on several more cottages, and rents will depend on income.

Back at Logan's house, the repairs will continue for the foreseeable future.

"It was such a blessing to have Richard come into my life because he knows how to fix anything," she said.

Since the storm, Wilson became more than her handyman. Three months after Irma hit, the couple decided to get married.

"I lost all the stuff in my house, but the Lord blesses me with a husband that can help me get it restored," said Logan.

"We're a different bunch of people that bounce back. We're special," said Wilson.