Hurricane Idalia brought dangerous wind, rain and storm surge to Florida’s West Coast on Wednesday, as a Category 3 storm with winds of 125 mph. The storm tore through the region, destroying homes and submerging cars, flooding streets and leaving many without power.
As the first major hurricane to enter Apalachee Bay on record, many are banding together to help with relief efforts to those affected by Idalia. If you are able to, here are several ways you can help from South Florida and beyond:
1. Global Empowerment Mission
This non-profit organization in Doral is currently on the ground and have loaded several trucks with aid and supplies to the most affected zones in Florida. They are currently seeking volunteers and donations (monetary or supplies).
2. Volunteer Florida
This foundation manages the Florida Disaster Fund, the state’s official fund for disaster and emergency response. You can help out by volunteering or donating.
3. Feeding Tampa Bay
Feeding Tampa Bay, part of the national Feeding America network, focuses on providing food to those in need in the 10-county area of West Central Florida. Following Hurricane Idalia, they’ve been distributing meals to affected families. Offer your help by volunteering or donating supplies or relief.
Find their current emergency distribution locations here. For food resources near you, click on the ‘Find Food’ tab on their website.
4. American Red Cross
The national organization has mobilized hundreds of disaster responders to help, along with 45 specialty response vehicles and truckloads of supplies. Make a donation or sign up to volunteer.
5. The Smile Trust
The Smile Trust Inc., a local nonprofit that works toward fixing food insecurities, is seeking help through volunteers and donations to help those impacted by Idalia. Volunteers are needed to collect and pack donations, as well as data collection. Items they are taking in include non-perishable foods, water, medicine, first aid supplies and more. They are located at 4300 NW 12th Ave. Miami, FL 33127.