The devastating effects of hurricanes are nothing new to Naples, Florida. Despite the community’s adaptability and resilience, everyone may find the aftermath of a disaster difficult. Finding trustworthy local services is crucial, regardless of whether you require short-term help or long-term support. The Consumer Help Group put together a list of useful resources and connections below to help you and your loved ones recover from the catastrophe.
1. Emergency Services and Shelters
If emergency shelter or basic services are required, the Collier County Emergency Management team is the first point of contact. They coordinate shelters and provide crucial updates in disaster situations.
- Collier County Emergency Management
Website: Collier County Emergency Management
Phone: 311 or (239) 252-3600
Address: 8075 Lely Cultural Pkwy, Naples, FL 34113
2. Federal Assistance Programs
A person must apply for federal aid to receive substantial damage or monetary assistance. FEMA provides grants for temporary housing, repairs, and other needs.
- FEMA Disaster Assistance
Phone: 1-800-621-3362 FEMA Helpline
TTY: 1-800-462-7585
3. Food and Water Rations
Afterward, food and fresh water should be available. Organizations such as Feeding South Florida and local food banks will start to provide relief. The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida is also in place with its supply of essentials.
- Harry Chapin Food Bank
Website: harrychapinfoodbank.org
Ph. (239) 334-7007
Address: 3760 Fowler St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- 211 Helpline
Website: 211.org
Phone: Calling 211 for a referral
Text: text your zip code to 898-211.
4. Debris removal and cleanup support
Debris from a hurricane is one of the great hazards. The City of Naples Public Works provides collection services to the affected neighborhoods. Residents must sort their debris into various types, including yard waste and construction materials.
- City of Naples Public Works
Website: naplesgov.com
Phone: (239) 213-5000
Address: 295 Riverside Cir, Naples, FL 34102
5. Power Cuts by Distribution Companies
Hurricanes are often followed by power outages. Being able to notify outages and stay abreast of events is crucial to restoration efforts.
- Florida Power & Light (FPL)
Website: FPL’s outage map
Phone: 1-800-468-8243
- Collier County Utilities
Website: colliercountyfl.gov
Phone: (239) 252-6245.
6. Local Non-Profits and Groups Volunteering
Community-driven organizations are highly instrumental in recovery activities. Some examples here include the United Way of Collier and the Keys and the Red Cross, offering volunteer services and temporary housing.
- United Way of Collier and the Keys
Web: uwcollier.org
Phone: (239) 261-7112
Address: 9015 Strada Stell Ct Naples, FL 34109
- Red Cross
Website: www.redcross.org
Phone: 1-800-733-2767
7. Mental Health and Counseling Services
It’s extremely traumatic to experience a hurricane, but just as important as physical recovery is the recovery of their mental capacity. NAMI Collier County offers counseling and emotional support services.
- NAMI Collier County
Website: namicollier.org
Phone: (239) 260-7300
6216 Trail Blvd, Naples, FL 34108
- Disaster Distress Helpline
Website: SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline
Phone: 1-800-985-5990
Text: Text “TalkWithUs” to 66746
The recovery from a hurricane will take time; the good news is that with good resources and legal help like from the Consumer Help Group, the community of Naples can rebuild even stronger than ever. These local and federal services are available to get you through every step of the way, should you or someone you know need some assistance. Don’t be hesitant in reaching out and sharing these resources.
Stay safe and connected, Naples!
