Update as of 5:00 pm, October 13, 2024
Information Provided Below:
- Hurricane Milton Update
- Power Outages
- Catholic Charities Office Closing
- Updated Assistance and Resources
- Pinellas
- Hillsborough
- Pasco
- Hernando
- Citrus
- FEMA Information to apply for Damage Assistance
- HUD Assistance to Florida Disaster Victims
- Catholic Charities Upcoming Assistance Efforts in the Community
- OTHER By-County Assistance
- Pinellas
- Hillsborough
- Pasco
- Hernando
- Citrus
- Feeding Tampa Bay Emergency Food Distribution
HURRICANE MILTON UPDATE
Power Outages
Power Outages as of 5:00 pm on Sunday, October 14th.
- Tampa Electric – 287,034 (https://outage.tecoenergy.com/)
- Duke Energy – 240,422 (https://outagemap.duke-energy.com/#/current-outages/fl)
- Withlacoochee River Electric – 6,890 (https://withlacoochee.outagemap.coop/)
Catholic Charities Office Closing
NOTE: our offices will now reopen on Tuesday, Oct. 15th!
MILTON SHELTER & SERVICES UPDATE
PINELLAS COUNTY
Shelters
Shelters have been reduced to six remaining open. The latest information available at disaster.pinellas.gov:
Disaster Assistance
It is difficult to predict when emergency-relief services may become available after a hurricane. Often it could take days— sometimes even weeks. Pinellas County works with local, state and federal organizations to provide essentials for residents and business owners as quickly as possible.
Once emergency needs are met, recovery begins. In the months that follow, state and federal government agencies will set up assistance sites to help with applying for disaster assistance related to business restoration, building repairs and long-term housing for those who lost homes. The priorities are to make sure everyone has a safe place to stay and that county businesses can get back to serving the community.
Debris (including sand and sandbags) Cleanup
The residential debris sites for unincorporated residents on Icot Boulevard and at the corner Keystone Road & East Lake Road reopened Friday, Oct. 11.
IMPORTANT: Storm debris that is in bags and/or not separated will NOT be picked up. Storm debris must be loose and separated by type: vegetative material, construction and demolition debris (doors, drywall), mixed goods (mattresses, furniture) and household appliances. Refrigerators MUST be empty.
You can reuse clean sandbags, but do not throw contaminated sandbags in your trash can or dump them on the beach. You can bring used sandbags, separated from other waste, to the Solid Waste Disposal Complex. More information at: pinellas.gov/sandbags.
Disposal sites for individuals and commercial companies in unincorporated Pinellas. See listings. (too long to list here: https://pinellas.gov/emergency-information-3/sand-and-debris-cleanup/#Disposal-sites)
Food
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources. – https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood
Communication Updates
Pinellas County provides up-to-the-minute information on disaster.pinellas.gov.
To ask a question during an emergency, call the County Information Center at (727) 464-4333, or use Live Chat at disaster.pinellas.gov, which may be preferable for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Hours of operation will be announced via the website, Ready Pinellas, alerts, social media and at disaster.pinellas.gov.
Alerts
Alert Pinellas
Sign up for Alert Pinellas to receive messages about emergencies and other important community news. Alert Pinellas is an emergency notification service for Pinellas County, local municipalities and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. This service is free to our residents and delivers urgent messages about a variety of situations, such as severe weather, boil water notices, missing persons or evacuations.
Emergency Weather Radio
Get automatic alerts from the National Weather Service. We recommend that you configure the radio to receive alerts only for Pinellas County using the Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME). Each model of the radio has different instructions for setting it up, so check your owner’s manual. For Pinellas County, use SAME code 012103. If the radio does not require a SAME, tune to frequency 162.450.
Free Mobile Apps
Ready Pinellas
Personalize emergency plans with checklists, insurance information, contacts, inventory and more. This information can be saved to your phone so that it will be available to you in the case of power outages and loss of cell service. Get up-to-date information and notifications that are pushed through to your device. It is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Florida 511
The Florida 511 mobile app provides real-time traffic conditions and incident information for the state of Florida. It is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. You can alternatively receive Florida 511 information via text message or social media.
Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a social network where you can see news and updates local to your neighborhood or city. Pinellas County and other official agencies use Nextdoor to share important information during emergencies. The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. You can also access the network by using the Nextdoor website, which has options for email and text messages.
Social Media
Pinellas County Government
- Facebook for Pinellas County Government: @PinellasGov
- X for Pinellas County Emergency Management: @PinellasEM
- X for Pinellas County Government: @PinellasGov
- YouTube for Pinellas County Government: PinellasGov
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
Shelters
The County lifted the mandatory evacuation order at 2:00 pm on October 10th. All shelters have been closed.
Residents in the University Area, Palm River, and Town N Country areas as well as the cities of Plant City and Temple Terrace are advised to take extra precautions as several roadways remain underwater and impassable due to flooding.
Temporary Housing and Assistance
Hillsborough County residents who have been displaced due to Hurricane Milton are allowed to place temporary shelter on their residential property. According to Florida Statutes 553.7922, temporary shelters can remain on the property for up to three years after the date of the storm’s emergency declaration or until a certificate of occupancy is issued on the permanent residential structure on the property. A state of emergency was declared on Oct. 6, 2024. Temporary shelters include a recreational vehicle, trailer, or similar structure.
Income eligible residents of Unincorporated Hillsborough County, Plant City and Temple Terrace, who have been displaced due to Hurricane Milton may be eligible to receive temporary hotel assistance. For further details and eligibility requirements, please call (813) 675-3450.
Damage Assistance & Reporting
The self-reporting form for residents and nonprofit organizations who sustained property damage during Hurricane Milton will be available at HCFL.gov/DamageAssessment on Friday, Oct. 11. This form helps Hillsborough County evaluate the scope of damage to property in the area. Residents and nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship and agricultural/aquacultural entities, are encouraged to complete the form.
Residents who need assistance in completing the form should call (833) HC-STORM or 833-427-8676, the County’s Customer Service & Support storm information line.
This County assessment form IS NOT a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) application. To register with FEMA, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
Please keep in mind that completing this form DOES NOT replace a business or homeowner’s insurance claim, nor does it serve as an application for resources.
Debris Cleanup
Hillsborough County will be collecting storm debris from County neighborhoods most heavily affected by Hurricane Milton. Residents in the County’s collection areas impacted by flooding should place debris curbside without blocking the roadway or storm drains. To ensure smooth collection, materials should be separated into three categories: yard waste, damaged household appliances, and construction and demolition debris to include furniture, drywall, carpet and fencing. Bagged waste and household hazardous waste, such as paint or car batteries, will not be accepted as part of this storm-related pickup.
Hillsborough County will resume residential curbside trash, recycling, and yard waste collections on routes that can be safely accessed. Please be patient as service may be delayed due to localized street flooding and storm debris on roadways.
The County has resumed storm debris collection from the rights of way utilizing both internal and external resources. Additional external resources and debris haulers are being mobilized to assist in the recovery process. Learn how to properly separate and place storm debris at the right of way.
All Solid Waste Community Collection Centers will be open for extended hours from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. until further notice. The locations are:
- Northwest County Solid Waste Facility – 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, FL 33625
- Hillsborough Heights Solid Waste Facility – 6209 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584
- South County Solid Waste Facility – 13000 U.S. 41, Gibsonton, FL 33534
All three locations accept residential yard waste and wood disposal. Each location also accepts a variety of household items, including furniture, couches, chairs, tables, mattresses, washers, dryers, tires, and microwaves. Additionally, the centers accept batteries, electronics, and paint.
The Alderman’s Ford Solid Waste Facility, 9402 County Road 39, Plant City, FL 33567, and the Wimauma Solid Waste Facility, 16180 W. Lake Dr., Wimauma, FL 33598, only accept a variety of household items, including furniture, couches, chairs, tables, mattresses, washers, dryers, tires, and microwaves. Additionally, the centers accept batteries, electronics, and paint. They do not accept yard waste and wood disposal.
In addition, Hillsborough County’s Resource Recovery Facility, 350 N. Falkenburg Road, Tampa, FL 33619, will open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice. The Resource Recovery Facility accepts yard waste, construction and demolition debris, furniture, emptied appliances and other household items at no charge. It doesn’t accept household hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, etc.) or regular household garbage. For additional information, visit HCFL.gov/SolidWaste.
Food
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources. – https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood.
- Phone: (813) 254-1190
- Neighbor Services Help Line: (813) 710-9003
Communications & Updates
Residents can confirm evacuation zones and register for HCFL Alert, Hillsborough County’s official public notification system, at HCFL.gov/StaySafe or by calling (833) HC-STORM or or (833) 427-8676.
Make sure to have a plan. Residents and visitors are encouraged to register for HCFL Alert, Hillsborough County’s official public notification system for emergency and urgent alerts. To receive messages by email, phone, and text, go to HCFL.gov/StaySafe. Residents without digital access are encouraged to call (833) HC STORM or (833) 427-8676, the County’s storm information and help line, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For more information on Hillsborough County’s response to inclement weather and other emergencies, visit Stay Safe and sign up for HCFL Alert.
PASCO COUNTY
Shelters
Pasco County Emergency Management has lifted the mandatory evacuation order for Evacuation Zones A, B and C and mobile homes. Residents are now welcome to return home. Please use caution heading back into the storm-damaged areas, as recovery efforts are ongoing.
Due to historic river flooding associated with Hurricane Milton, Pasco County is recommending voluntary evacuations in the following locations:
- Elfers
- Cypress Creek at Worthington Gardens
- Thousand Oaks
- Everyone in low-lying areas or areas prone to flooding
These shelters will remain open to assist anyone needing a place to stay:
- *Fasano Regional Hurricane Center, 11611 Denton Avenue, Hudson *(Special Needs Only)
- River Ridge Middle and High Schools, 11646 Town Center Road, New Port Richey
Visit MyPasco.net and follow Pasco County on social media for the latest county updates on Hurricane Milton.
Debris Cleanup
Pasco County Government is offering two options for Pasco County residents to dispose of storm-related yard debris: you can drop off tree limbs or branches for FREE at one of Pasco’s two solid waste facilities OR you can pile your yard waste at the curb and Pasco County will pick it up in the coming weeks.
DEBRIS DROP-OFF LOCATIONS:
- East Pasco Transfer Station, 9626 Handcart Road, Dade City
- Open every day from 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. for Pasco County residents
- West Pasco Resource Recovery, 14606 Hays Road, Spring Hill
- Open every day from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. for Pasco County residents
Both locations are also accepting flood-damaged debris. Fees for storm debris disposal are waived until further notice. Please be prepared to show your I.D. with proof of Pasco County residency.
*STORM DEBRIS PICK-UP:
Pasco County will also be picking up loose, Foostorm-related debris that is sorted into piles and placed by the curb. *Pasco will only pick up items that were damaged in the storm.
Questions? Call or chat with Pasco Customer Service: 727.847.2411 / MyPasco.net
Food
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources. – https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood.
- Phone: (813) 254-1190
- Neighbor Services Help Line: (813) 710-9003
Communications
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 727-847-8137
- Address: 8744 Government Drive, Building A, New Port Richey, FL 34654
HERNANDO COUNTY
Evacuation Orders
Mandatory evacuation orders have been lifted. Evacuation shelters have been closed.
Damage Reporting
Online Hurricane Milton Property Damage Reporting Form, which should be completed by any private property OR business owner who has sustained any property damage.
Hurricane Milton Damage Reporting Form: https://hernandocounty.jotform.com/242174517553962
QUICK TIPS:
Fill out the form as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Upload pictures to show accurate damage.
Have questions? Visit Hernando County’s Emergency Management website at http://www.HernandoCounty.us/EM.
Shelter
The emergency shelters have been closed.
Debris Cleanup
Residents and Contractors are permitted to utilize the West Hernando Convenience Center and the Main Landfill overnight tonight and will close tomorrow, Wednesday, October 9th at 12pm.
All storm debris related tipping fees are waived, until further notice.
Debris removal is still ongoing and the West Hernando Convenience Center is open TODAY. There are currently 9 Contractor Trucks, 2 City of Brooksville Trucks, 3 County Trucks, and numerous other county vehicles picking up Debris.
Debris removal pick up for areas affected by Hurricane Helene begins Saturday, September 28, 2024 and will continue until debris removal has been completed. Areas included in debris removal pick up are between CR 550 (Cortez Blvd) and Osowaw Blvd., west of US 19 (including private roads). Only storm generated debris will be collected.
A debris hotline has been established and will open 8am-5pm beginning Saturday, September 28th. For residents with questions regarding the debris removal pick up, please call the at 833-307-5580.
Tips for debris removal:
- All appliances should be emptied before being placed at the curb for pick up. Food waste can be disposed of with your regular household garbage.
- You may see multiple trucks on your street on the same day or trucks on different days, as each truck will be picking up a specific type of debris.
Food
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources. – https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood.
- Phone: (813) 254-1190
- Neighbor Services Help Line: (813) 710-9003
County Communications & Updates
For the latest local conditions and a complete list of news alerts go to www.HernandoCounty.us/EM
Sign up to receive weather alerts at www.AlertHernando.org
Follow us on Facebook:
o @HernandoCountyEM
o @HernandoCoGov
o @HernandoCountyFire
Stay tuned as more information becomes available. Visit the Hernando County Emergency Management website at www.HernandoCounty.us/EM for all storm-related notices.
For questions or more information, please contact Hernando County’s Public Information Center at (352) 754-4083.
CITRUS COUNTY
Evacuation Orders & Shelters
The Mandatory Evacuation order was lifted. All evacuation shelters have been closed.
Damage Reporting
Report damages using the form located here: https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/divisions/bureau_of_support_operations/Severe_Weather_Damage_Report_Form.php
Providing damage reports to Emergency Management allows for better situation awareness. In the event of a declared disaster, it allows us to better guide recovery agencies to affected areas. If there are public assets damaged, it will assist the local government in making repairs.
Submission of this form does not guarantee any type of financial assistance. This form is for information purposes only and may be used when submitting county-wide damage assessments or incidents to the State of Florida and FEMA.
To report damages: https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/divisions/bureau_of_support_operations/Severe_Weather_Damage_Report_Form.php
If you have been affected by a disaster and require assistance, please complete this form. Emergency Management will refer your request to an organization(s) that may be capable of helping you.
If you are requesting a well-being check, please contact the 9-1-1 Communications Center at 352-249-2790.
To request assistance: https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/divisions/bureau_of_support_operations/Request_for_Assistance_Form.php
Food
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources. – https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood.
- Phone: (813) 254-1190
- Neighbor Services Help Line: (813) 710-9003
Debris Cleanup
There is no debris management related to this event at this time. This is from the Citrus County Emergency Management website as of 10:54 AM, Friday, October 11, 2024. Source: Hurricane Resources and Recovery (pascocountyfl.net) or https://pascocountyfl.net/services/emergency_management/resources_and_recovery.php#collapselinks-4555-20b0.
Communications & Updates
CITIZEN INFORMATION LINES: OPEN 8AM-8PM
352-249-2775
FEMA RESOURCES
Hurricane Milton
Learn about government assistance programs at: www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
To see the latest on available FEMA assistance for Hurricane Milton: 3622 | FEMA.gov (the page should look like the one below).
HUD offers assistance to Florida citizens in our five counties!
Effective immediately, HUD is:
- Providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as well as foreclosures of mortgages to Native American borrowers guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. There is also a 90-day extension granted automatically for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages. The moratorium and extension are effective as of the President’s disaster declaration date.
Homeowners affected by the disaster should contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately for assistance. Conventional mortgage holders may also be eligible for additional relief through their mortgage holder.
Call the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 for additional information. To learn more about disaster relief options for FHA homeowners visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.
- Making mortgage insurance available - When homes are destroyed or damaged to an extent that required reconstruction or complete replacement, HUD’s Section 203(h) program provides FHA insurance to disaster victims. Borrowers from participating FHA approved lenders are eligible for 100 percent financing including closing costs.
- Making financing available for both mortgage and home rehabilitation - HUD’s Section 203(k) loan program enables individuals to finance the purchase or refinance of a house, along with its repair, through a single mortgage. Homeowners can also finance the rehabilitation of their existing homes if damaged.
- Sharing information on housing providers and HUD programs - Information will be shared with FEMA and the State on housing providers that may have available units in the impacted counties, including Public Housing Agencies and Multi-Family owners. The Department will also connect FEMA and the State to subject matter experts to provide information on HUD programs and providers.
- Providing flexibility to Community Planning and Development Grantees – Recipients of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, Housing Opportunities for Persons With HIV/AIDS (HOPWA) Program, Continuum of Care (CoC) Program, Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program, HOME Investment Partnership Program, and Housing Trust Fund (HTF) Program funds can apply for needed administrative flexibility in response to Presidentially Declared Major Disasters (Florida/ DR4828-FL). For more information on applying for a waiver or suspension of program requirements, contact your local Community Planning and Development Program Office here.
- Providing flexibility to Public Housing Agencies - Public Housing Agencies can apply for needed waivers and flexibilities for disaster relief and recovery. For detailed information on applying for a waiver, click here for the latest Federal Register Disaster Relief Notice guidance. The Department also released PIH Notice 2021-34, which advises the public of HUD’s expedited process for waivers and flexibilities from HUD regulatory and administrative requirements for various Public Housing and Voucher Programs. As a reminder, to be eligible to receive a disaster waiver, the PHA must be located in an active Presidentially declared Major Disaster Declaration area and submitted within four months of an MDD.
- Providing flexibility to Tribes - Tribes and their Tribally Designated Housing Entities can apply for needed administrative flexibility through regulatory waivers. For detailed information on how to apply for a waiver, Tribes and TDHEs should contact their local Office of Native American Programs or email [email protected].
- Ensuring HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are ready to assist - HUD-approved housing counseling agencies have counselors available to assist those impacted by natural disasters to determine assistance needs and available resources. Find a HUD-approved housing counseling agency online or use our telephone look-up tool by calling (800) 569-4287. Telephone look-up includes access to information in more than 200 different languages. You do not have to have an FHA-insured mortgage to meet with a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. There is never a fee for foreclosure prevention counseling.
- Assisting with housing discrimination - Housing discrimination sometimes occurs when people attempt to find and access housing following a disaster. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is available to assist people who believe they have experienced housing discrimination. If you think your rights have been violated, you should file a fair housing complaint with HUD. You can file a complaint by calling HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or visiting How to File a Complaint on HUD’s website. Materials and assistance are available for persons with limited English proficiency. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may contact the Department using the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339. You should file a complaint with HUD as soon as possible. HUD may not help you if your complaint is filed more than one year after the last discriminatory act. You may also be able to file a complaint with a state or local fair housing agency. A list of the state and local fair housing agencies funded by HUD is available on HUD’s website here.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES ASSISTANCE
Supply Distribution Locations
- Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church (Pasco County)
- Opens: 9:00 am on Tuesday, October 15th
- Address: 5340 High Street, New Port Richey | 727-849-7521
- Supplies and Services:
- Water
- MREs
- Hygiene Kits
- Baby Diapers & Baby Food
- Cleaning Kits
- Port-o-lets (portable toilets)
WE ARE FINALIZING DROP-OFF LOCATIONS FOR DONATIONS TO ASSIST PEOPLE IN NEED. PLEASE DO NOT DELIVER ITEMS TO ANY OF THESE LOCATIONS UNTIL YOU SEE HEAR OR VIA OUR SOCIAL MEDIA THAT WE ARE PREPARED
Catholic Charities will be asking the community to provide requested items (listed below) to several drop-off locations we operate.
Items Requested
Liquids – Water, Liquid IV Sticks, Bottled Electrolyte Water
Hygiene/Toiletries – Bar/Liquid Soap, Shampoo, Bodywash, Toothbrush & Toothpaste, Comb, Brush, Deodorant (unscented), Shaving Cream, Disposable Blades, Wash Cloth, String Bag (to store items)
Clean-Up Supplies – Mops, Buckets (resealable lid versions are best), Brooms, Towels, Paper Towels, Rags, All-Purpose Liquid Cleaners (in Spray Bottles), Gloves (Work & Rubber), Scouring Pads, Scrub Brush, Clotheslines & Pins, Laundry Detergent, Cleaning/Disinfectant Wipes, Air Freshener, Liquid Detergent Soap, Trash Bags (contractor-size), N95 Masks (mold), Dust Bins & Hand Brushes, Dish Soap
Baby Items – Diapers, Formula, Baby Food (Pouches preferred; NO glassware please)
Miscellaneous – Insect Repellent (spray or bracelet), Blankets, Tarps, Flashlights (with batteries)
TENTATIVE Drop-Off Locations
Hillsborough County
- Tampa Hope – 3704 E. 3rd Avenue (813-415-8002)
- Tampa Center – 2021 E. Busch Blvd. (813-631-4370)
- Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church – 2348 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes (813-949-4965)
- St. Anne Catholic Church – 106 11th Ave NE, Ruskin, FL 33570 (813-645-1714)
- St. Timothy Catholic Church – 17512 Lakeshore Road, Lutz (813-968-1077)
- St. Lawrence Catholic Church – 5225 N Himes Ave, Tampa (813-875-4040) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
- Nativity Catholic Church – 705 E Brandon Blvd, Brandon (813-681-4608) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
- Catholic Student Union at USF – 13005 N. 50th St., Tampa (813-988-3727) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
- St. Mark Catholic Church – 9724 Cross Creek Blvd (813-907-7746) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
Pinellas County
- Pinellas Hope – 5726 126th Avenue N., Clearwater (727-556-6397)
- Catholic Charities – 6247 Seminole Blvd., Seminole (727-893-1314)
- St. Patrick Catholic Church – 1507 Trotter Rd., Largo (727-584-2318)
- Pastoral Center – 6363 9th Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727-344-1611) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
- St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church – 1955 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater (727-531-7721)
- Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church – 750 San Salvador Dr., Dunedin (727-733-7606) TBD – NOT CONFIRMED
Pasco County
- Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church – 5340 High Street, New Port Richey (727-849-7521)
- Foundations of Life Center – 37733 Meridian Ave., Dade City (352-521-1218)
Hernando County
- Foundations of Life Center – 8370 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill (352-686-9897)
- St. Anthony the Abbott Catholic Church – 20428 Cortez Blvd, Brooksville (352-796-2096)
Citrus County
- DayStar Life Center – 6751 W. Gulf to Lake Hwy, Crystal River (352-795-8668)
- St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church – 7040 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa (352-628-7000)
Available Resources & Assistance by County
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
The information shared below (in Infographic or image formats) can be found here:
- Stay Safe | Hillsborough County, FL (hcfl.gov) OR
- https://hcfl.gov/residents/stay-safe
EMERGENCY HOTLINE: 1-833-872-4636
DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER (FEMA)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM), and Hillsborough County open Disaster Recovery Center
Disaster Recovery Center
Hillsborough Community College (HCC) at The Regent
6437 Watson Rd., Riverview, FL 33578.
Hours of operation:
Monday, Sept. 30, 1 to 6 PM
Tuesday, Oct. 1 through Sunday, Oct. 6, 9 AM to 6 PM
Representatives from FEMA, the Florida Small Business Administration (SBA), and stakeholders will be present to assist residents who want to file a FEMA application for Individual Assistance through the Individual and Households Program (IHP) for Hurricane Helene.
COMFORT STATIONS
Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa opened comfort stations to help residents affected by Hurricane Helene. Four comfort stations are in Town ‘N Country, Apollo Beach, and Ruskin, and the city of Tampa sites include the Davis Islands and Palmetto Beach neighborhoods.
The comfort stations offer showers, restrooms, washers and dryers for laundry, and charging stations for phones, laptops, and other communications devices. Hot food or boxed meals will be available at lunch and dinner times.
- No ID required at Comfort Stations
Comfort stations are open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice at the following locations:
- Marjorie Park Marina, 97 Columbia Dr., Tampa, FL 33606
- Desoto Park, 2617 Corrine St., Tampa, FL 33605
- Apollo Beach Park & Recreation Center, 664 Golf and Sea Blvd., Apollo Beach, FL 33572
- Ruskin Park & Recreation Center, 901 6th St. SE, Ruskin, FL 33570
- Sandy Perrone Park, 5120 Kelly Rd., Tampa, FL 33615
- Skyway Sports Complex & Park, 3901 George Rd., Tampa, FL 33634
A satellite site with limited services is also available to residents south of Gandy Blvd.
Satellite comfort station open 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, until October 17, 2024:
- Gandy Civic Association, 4207 W. Oklahoma Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
- (Please note that showers and on-site laundry services will not be available at this location.)
If you need transportation assistance to and from a comfort station, call (833) HC STORM or (833) 427-8676 daily from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Lunch and dinner:
American Red Cross will be serving meals at all comfort station locations around lunch and dinner time.
CRISIS CLEANUP – ASSISTANCE
If you need help cleaning up damage from Hurricane Helene, call (844) 965-1386 for cleanup assistance. Crisis Cleanup will connect you with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups, and faith communities who may be able to assist.
All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Oct. 25, 2024
BUSINESS DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
The State of Florida has opened the Business Damage Assessment Survey for Hurricane Helene. Please take a moment to complete the survey. Completing the survey helps to ensure the appropriate services are available during recovery.
Business Damage Assessment Survey (https://floridadisaster.biz/Respond/BusinessDamageAssessmentsSurvey)
EMERGENCY PERMITTING
Due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, some residential and commercial structures may be in need of minor repairs.
Florida Statute 553.7922 allows for communities to follow special processing procedures to expedite permitting for these repairs.
Structures that may require major repairs will need to be further evaluated before permits may be issued. View Hillsborough County Disaster Declaration Permitting Special Processing Procedures to learn more.
Questions regarding emergency permitting? Call (833) HC-STORM, or (833) 427-8676.
OTHER RESOURCES
People without access to adequate air conditioning also can take refuge in public places, including libraries or shopping malls. A full list of library locations and hours (https://hcplc.org/locations) is available online. Please note that some library locations are closed due to storm damage.
Residents also can refill water bottles in County parks, libraries, or government buildings across the county. Use the Water Bottle Filling Station map to find your nearest station. (see map below)
Free Laundry Services are being donated by the WASH ZONE located at 5235 S. Dale Mabry Highway. Available daily from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm.
Residents are encouraged to report unmet needs due to impacts from Hurricane Helene by completing this easy-to-use online form at HCFL.gov/DamageAssessment.
If you need assistance completing the form, call (833) HC-STORM or (833) 427-8676, the County’s storm information line. The information will be routed to the appropriate County department, which will respond within 72 hours.
PINELLAS COUNTY
All the information provided below is available online here:
Emergency Information – Pinellas County OR (https://pinellas.gov/emergency-information)
DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER
FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is located at Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Drive, Largo.
This DRC location will open Wednesday, Oct. 2, at 1 p.m. After that, residents can visit from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
DRCs serve as centralized locations where people can access various services and information related to disaster recovery. Learn more.
FEMA Assistance Locations
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Pinellas County and local partners have coordinated to open six sites around Pinellas County Saturday, Oct. 5, to expand access to federal application assistance.
The six federal registration assistance points will open at 9 a.m. Saturday and operate until 7 p.m. each day throughout the week. Staff will be available to help residents navigate applying for FEMA assistance.
Assistance site locations are:
- Gulfport Public Library: 5501 28th Ave S., Gulfport
- Enoch D Davis Center: 1111 18th Ave S. St. Petersburg
- Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation: 1500 16th St., Palm Harbor
- City of Madeira Beach Recreation Center: 200 Rex Place, Madeira Beach
- City of South Pasadena: 7047 Sunset Drive S., South Pasadena
- Oldsmar Public Library: 400 St. Petersburg Drive E., Oldsmar
COOLING STATIONS
Several cooling stations are available in areas where residents remain without power following Hurricane Helene. These stations will provide a place for residents to cool off and charge their phones. View locations and hours here. (https://pinellas.gov/news/cooling-stations-open-around-county/)
Housing Options for Disabled Residents
If you have been displaced due to Hurricane Helene, visit pinellas.gov/HurricaneHousing for a list of resources to help you search for short-and long-term housing options.
FOOD ASSISTANCE
Pinellas County is supporting points of distribution (PODs) where barrier island residents affected by Hurricane Helene can receive free food, water and tarps while they last.
The PODs will be open from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. at the following locations:
- St. Pete Beach: 4700 Gulf Bvd., St. Pete Beach. Food, water and tarps
- Treasure Island: 10451 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island. Food, water and tarps
Feeding Tampa Bay is offering food pantries and food distribution events in Pinellas County for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find food and resources (OR https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood#find-a-pantry).
Storm Debris Cleanup
Pinellas County is collecting debris in certain zones, and there are several options for debris disposal in our area. Visit Pinellas.gov/debris for more information.
Separate tree limbs and yard waste from household items or building debris. Put the debris in separated piles on your curb without blocking the road and away from gutters and storm drains.
Pinellas County Solid Waste cannot accept storm-related debris from residents or private haulers. The facility is not an approved site for storm debris disposal. See the website above for detailed information on where residents and commercial haulers can take storm debris from unincorporated Pinellas.
Crisis Cleanup Assistance
Crisis Cleanup has activated the Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: (844) 965-1386. This is for people who need help cleaning up damage from the Hurricane Helene and connects people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able assist with jobs such as muck-outs (cleaning up), trees, tarp, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.
Please note: This hotline cannot assist with social services such as food, clothing, shelter, insurance, or questions about FEMA registration. Volunteers work free of charge and provide the tools and equipment necessary to complete the work.
Home and Business Repairs
Is your property damaged? Read our Rebuilding After a Storm webpage before beginning your repairs to ensure your house can better withstand future storms.
If your business was economically injured or physically damaged by Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for a Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan up to $50,000. Learn more and apply at Floridajobs.org/EBL.
Make sure contractors you hire are licensed – unlicensed or fraudulent contractors often target desperate homeowners in the aftermath of hurricanes. Learn more at pinellas.gov/choosing-a-contractor. Verify contractors are licensed at contractorsearch.pcclb.com.
If you suspect unlicensed construction activity is taking place and the work is actively in progress, submit your report by completing this form or call the Pinellas County Tipline at (727) 582-6767.
Mental Health Assistance
The Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 toll-free, multilingual disaster crisis counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to disasters. Call or text 1-800-985-5990. View more information.
For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: To connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, click the “ASL Now” button below or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone. ASL Support is available 24/7. FAQs for ASL NOW users.
PASCO COUNTY
All the information listed below (including working links) is available online here:
- Helene Resources and Recovery (pascocountyfl.net) OR
- https://www.pascocountyfl.net/services/emergency_management/resources_and_recovery.php)
Living Quarters
Pasco County and the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County continue to provide emergency shelter for people who need a temporary safe place to stay while looking for a longer-term home.
• Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter: 11611 Denton Ave, Hudson
• This shelter is pet-friendly & also serves anyone with special medical needs.
If you need home repairs, rental or utility assistance, or temporary stays at local hotels due to Hurricane Helene, Pasco County Community Development is offering SHIP Disaster funds.
• This program is available to households with an income at or below 120% of the Area Median Income.
• Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum award of $25,000 per household.
• To apply for this program, fill out this application.
• For more information on Ship Disaster Program click here or call 727-834-3447.
Human Services is offering an online tool to help Hurricane Helene victims.
• Report human services needs by filling out this Hurricane Helene Human Needs Survey.
• Our team will identify available resources and provide assistance as quickly as we can.
Damage and Debris
- Report Damage in Pasco County.
- Pasco County is accepting free Hurricane Helene-related debris drop-off at the West Pasco Resource Recovery Center, 14606 Hays Road, Spring Hill. The facility will be open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., until further notice. These services are being provided for people in Pasco only. Be prepared to show proof of residency.
- Crisis Cleanup / Hurricane Helene Cleanup: (844) 965-1386 / CrisisCleanup.ORG
- Download our step-by-step recovery flyer by clicking here.
- Restoring Power Safely Click here
- Repairing Homes in a Flood Zone: Click here.
Comfort Stations
The following Pasco County Comfort Stations are open 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. until further notice:
- Hudson Library | 8012 Library Rd, Hudson
- J Ben Harrill Recreation Complex | 2830 Gulf Trace Blvd, Holiday
- Aripeka Baptist Church | 18731 Aripeka Rd
- Green Key Location | 6435 US-19, New Port Richey
The following amenities will be available at all locations:
- Air Conditioning
- Restrooms
- Showers (bring your own toiletries)
- Laundry (bring your own supplies)
- Charging stations
Pasco County is also extending services at our Points of Distribution (POD) locations at Hudson Library Parking Lot to ensure anyone displaced by the storm will have access to food and water. Both sites are open to drive-in customers daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., while supplies last.
Need a ride to a comfort station? GoPasco and Uber are giving free rides for Hurricane Helene victims in Pasco County.
GOPASCO: Call Pasco Customer Service at 727.847.2411 to book your ride. Please call at least 3 hours ahead for a round-trip reservation. Rides are available during comfort station operating hours (7 a.m. – 8 p.m.), so please plan accordingly.
UBER: For a FREE Uber ride to a comfort station follow the steps below:
- Open the Uber app
- Tap Account on the bottom right & tap Wallet
- Add promo code PASCOSTRONG
Discounted Services
- Internet: 30 days of free Internet services from Starlink
- Storage: U-Haul is offering FREE 30-day storage for Hurricane Helene victims. Call (727) 288-9919 to find a participating location near you.
- Transportation: For a FREE Uber ride to a comfort station follow the steps below:
- Open the Uber app
- Tap Account on the bottom right & tap Wallet
- Add promo code PASCOSTRONG
Mental Health Resources
- If you’re experiencing emotional distress during this challenging time, call the Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) – providing 24/7 multilingual, crisis support service. Call or text 1-800-985-5990.
- The Florida Department of Health provides an extensive list of mental health resources online: FloridaHealth.gov
- BayCare Mobile Crisis Response Team is available for Pasco County residents. Call 727-372-HELP (4357).
Volunteer
Register for volunteer opportunities through the following websites:
- Volunteer Florida
- Feeding Tampa Bay – Emergency Response Volunteer Team
- Operation BBQ Relief
- All Hands and Hearts – Mucking & Debris Removal Services – Please text (813) 921-3690
HERNANDO COUNTY
The information below is available on this online webpage:
- Emergency Management | Hernando County, FL OR
- https://www.hernandocounty.us/departments/departments-a-e/emergency-management
Family Resource Center
A Family Resource Center (FRC) will open in Hernando County in response to Hurricane Helene to supply citizens with clean up supplies and resources. The FRC is located at the Weeki Wachee Area Club at 7442 Shoal Line Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607. This Center will be open daily 9am-5pm beginning Saturday, September 28th until further notice. The location and dates/times are subject to change due to the effects of Hurricane Helene and the need for resources. The public will be notified as updates become available.
The FRC will be stocked with cleaning supplies and resources for residents and businesses in Hernando County. The FRC can provide nonperishable food, water, survivor assistance, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and help with applying for available programs for assistance.
For questions, call the Public Information Center at 352-754-4083 from 8am-6pm.
Temporary Housing Service
Temporary Housing Survey is now available for citizens affected by Hurricane Helene. This survey is designed to assess the housing needs and will be used by Hernando County Emergency Management to determine the best way to allocate resources for our community. This survey is preliminary in nature only.
Scan the QR Code of click here to complete survey.
CITRUS COUNTY
The information shared below is available online here:
- Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, FL (sheriffcitrus.org) OR
- https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/public_info/disaster_information.php
The ‘Request for Assistance Form’ is found here: Request for Assistance Form (sheriffcitrus.org) OR https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/divisions/bureau_of_support_operations/Request_for_Assistance_Form.php