Hurricane Milton: Key Recovery Resources for Tampa & Beyond
Hurricane Milton & Helene recovery resources for those in Tampa and beyond that have been impacted, and those that want to help.
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Tampa area faces a long road to recovery. Thousands of residents are dealing with the devastation left by these powerful storms, from property damage to loss of basic necessities. Thankfully, a variety of local and national organizations are stepping up to offer critical aid, including food, shelter, mental health support, and cleanup assistance. Dragonfly Pond Works is a proud member of many of the communities in the Tampa area and across Florida that have been impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. In this blog, we’ll outline key, qualified resources available to those impacted by the hurricanes, as well as opportunities for individuals who want to donate or volunteer to help the community rebuild.
Hurricane Recovery in Your Home- NC State provides fact sheets with safety tips and general information for hurricane recovery from a variety of circumstances, including power outages, flooding, cleanup, and repair. The NC State Disaster Recovery Information Center can be found here. The majority of this information is applicable and helpful regardless of where you live
Disaster Assistance- The government's disaster assistance website will help you determine if you are in an area declared for assistance, find assistance, and apply. You can find their website here. You can also call them at 1-800-621-3362 7 am-10 pm ET, seven days a week
Disaster Unemployment Assistance- Information regarding Disaster Unemployment Assistance and how to apply can be found here. You may also call at 1-877-872-5627
FEMA Resources- FEMA resources for Florida residents can be found here
Florida Division of Emergency Management- Find updated information regarding the state’s recovery efforts and available resources, including fuel distribution sites, the state assistance information line, Points of Distribution Sites for food, water, and more, and a variety of other resources here
Feeding Tampa Bay: Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantry services and grocery distributions for those in need of food assistance during recovery. You can find a location near you and additional information here. Individuals interested in providing support can also donate or volunteer
Disaster Distress Helpline- The helpline provides 24/7 crisis counseling. Call or text 1-800-985-5990
VolunteerFlorida- You can register as a volunteer, or volunteer organization, to be connected with residents or organizations that need support. This is a state agency that works in partnership with the Florida Division of Emergency Management
Additional Resources- WTSP, a Tampa news station, has compiled an extensive list of resources for those impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, and those wanting to volunteer or donate. Access WTSP’s resource list here
Other ways to help- Want to help with hurricane recovery, but looking for something more personal to you? If there's a certain community impacted that you love, check their local government website. Most local government websites are listing ways to donate or volunteer opportunities specific to their area. If there is a certain cause you are passionate about, chances are there is a related organization that needs help. Look for causes in areas that have been impacted, but do your research to avoid scams
