A lot of things are at least alittlebit of a joke toSouthern Charm‘sShep Rose. This includes his apparel line,Shep Gear, which features — along with Americana and Southern-themed clothes — tongue-in-cheek references to the show and his cast mates such as a “Craig Is My Lawyer” T-shirt and a “Tan Fat = Muscle” tank.

But there’s a serious side to what he’s selling, too.

“It just broke my heart to see what was happening,” he tells PEOPLE.

“I made these hats with the Bahamas’ flag on them and was like, ‘Let’s see what happens,’ he says. “And I raised $25,000.”

Even though it’s a relatively small amount toward the extensive damage done, Rose says he was “very proud” to raise the money for “such an amazing place.” (Friend and fellow cast member Craig Conover had invited him down to his apartment on the Abacos in the past, anddonated all proceedsfrom a $58 Bahamas-inspired lobster pillow from his line, Sewing Down South, to the cause as well.)

“It is gone. It’s insane, and it was such a special place. Is a special place,” Rose says. “All these little islands and restaurants and bars, and everybody has a boat and then jumps over and everybody knows each other. It’s just so beautiful.”

“We’re very happy to be able to help,” he says.

ShepGear/Instagram

Shep Rose

In a way, it’s also been a distraction — and a reminder of life’s real challengers — after themost recentSouthern Charmseason, which finished in late August and saw Shep in his share of conflicts.

“Sometimes I can get down on myself, but I think I’m happy,” he says, “and if I can help people, that’s awesome.”

source: people.com