Following the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Ian on Southwest Florida, many are looking for ways to assist. From reliable donation funds to chances for volunteering, here’s how you can assist survivors and create a genuine impact.
Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida on W.ednesday, September 28th, bringing wind speeds reaching 150 miles per hour. Nearly reaching Category 5 hurricane status, the storm devastated Fort Myers and resulted in flooding and damage from Naples to Orlando
During moments of need like these, numerous individuals feel the urge to assist but are uncertain about how to proceed. Here are locations where you can contribute funds and offer your time to assist the storm survivors in Florida.
A frequently chosen destination for donations after natural disasters in Florida is the Florida Disaster Fund. This non-profit serves as the official private fund for disaster assistance in the State of Florida. You can contribute online or write a check to “Volunteer Florida Foundation” and write “Florida Disaster Fund” on the memo line. Checks may also be sent via mail to the Volunteer Florida Foundation located at 1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
Global Giving provides financial support to local nonprofits and community organizations to secure a sustainable solution in areas impacted by natural disasters. Contributions will be utilized to supply food, water, and essential items to individuals in Florida; they additionally aid temporary relief for families who have been displaced.
Feeding Florida serves as the official network for food banks throughout Florida. During this period, they are collecting donations and ensuring that food and water supplies are provided to the storm’s victims.
Established in 2010, World Central Kitchen (WCK) aims to supply meals to individuals following natural disasters. They prepare volunteers locally and collaborate with chefs to offer meals and optimism to those affected by natural disasters.
Regrettably, when calamities occur, numerous people try to take advantage of the generosity and sympathy of others. If you’re interested in exploring volunteer and donation options beyond this list, we urge you to prioritize safety and adhere to these four guidelines to verify that the organization you plan to assist is credible:
Ensure that the organization you found provides documentation to show that donations have been directly used for disaster relief assistance.
Hurricane Ian has downgraded to a tropical storm and is now moving toward the shores of South Carolina and Georgia. Keep informed about the storm’s trajectory and adhere to local directives and safety measures if you reside in affected regions. Be sure to reach out to friends and family who might reside in impacted zones. Receiving support from others during such times can make a significant difference.