Surviving a hurricane can be brutal, leaving towns such as Fort Myers to rebuild and regain what was lost. After surviving a hurricane or if you have loved ones who have, it’s vital to know which local services are here to support your recovery. Find below the must-have organizations and services for immediate as well as long-term recovery.
1. Lee County Emergency Management
Lee County Emergency Management keeps the people updated in real-time with the available resources most critical during and post-hurricane. They coordinate shelter location, supply, and actions in terms of recovery so that everybody in Fort Myers is safe and sound. Follow their social media updates or even check their official website for more information on updates.
Contact Details:
Phone: (239) 533-0622
Website: Lee County Emergency Management
2. American Red Cross – Florida Gulf Coast to Heartland Chapter
The American Red Cross provides immense help in the restoration of a place hit by disaster, ranging from emergency sheltering to food distribution and health services. Right after the hurricane, American Red Cross volunteers worked overtime to provide emotional and physical relief to those battered. Be it temporary housing, food, or comfort, the Red Cross is always there to help.
Contact information:
Phone: 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
Website: American Red Cross
3. FEMA Aid
The federal government provides funds and services of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disaster relief. This includes assisting victims of those extreme weather systems. After a hurricane, based on available money, homeowners can apply for restoration for their homes as well as temporary accommodations to meet other essential needs. Any victim should register with FEMA as soon as possible to initiate the process.
How to Apply for Assistance:
Visit disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362).
4. Local and community food banks kitchens
One of the major issues post-the hurricane is the food, which immediately swings into action at the local level: organizations such as the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida provide quick food relief. Besides that, there are community kitchens and churches that give out hot meals and pantry food to the residents.
Top Food Banks to Reach Out:
- Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida
Phone: (239) 334-7007
Website: Harry Chapin Food Bank
- Community Cooperative
Dial; Phone: (239)332-7687
Website: Community Cooperative
5. Mental Health Support Services
Recovering from a hurricane is not only a physical process but an emotional one as well. If you’re struggling to cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma, local mental health resources are available to provide support. The Center for Progress and Excellence (CPE) and SalusCare are excellent options for counseling and mental health services.
Contact Information:
- Center for Progress and Excellence (CPE)
Phone: (239) 208-2218
Website: CPE Mental Health
- SalusCare
Phone: (239) 275-3222
Website: SalusCare
6. Volunteer and Community Support Networks
Recovery will be community-wide. Organizations like Volunteer Florida and neighborhood groups give opportunities to citizens to serve and be served alike. Whether you need help in cleaning up your property or want to give of your time in service to others, these networks can be highly useful in aiding collective resilience.
Contact Information:
Website: Volunteer Florida
Conclusion:
The hurricanes are destructive. You will find it hard to recover from the journey, but through the proper local resources and hurricane insurance attorney, it will be easy to find inner strength and support in rebuilding your home. Fort Myers is a community that stands strong and never leaves anybody behind in adversity. Keep in touch with the Consumer Help Group to get guides, and reach out; there’s always help waiting at each juncture.
