Relief, Info and Assistance
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The most in depth and up to date local resources list we found was through: The Women’s Resource Hurricane Recovery
The Women’s Resource Center has long provided one-on-one resource advising with trained advisors who are knowledgeable about all available resources in our community. We understand the devastation caused by the hurricane, and we’re here to help you navigate through this challenging time. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (941) 256-9721.
211.org or call “211” for up to date local resources
Your local 211 agency has the most up-to-date information about local assistance that may be available to you. Simply call 211 from a cell phone or landline to speak with a live, highly trained service professional. If you prefer to text, chat online, or search your local 211 online database, find your local 211’s other contact information here.
Florida Division of Emergency Management: Working together to ensure that Florida is prepared to respond to emergencies, recover from them, and mitigate against their impacts.
Florida Disaster/Emergency Management: Shelter Status
This page contains summary information for currently open general and special needs shelters within the State of Florida.
Manatee County Disaster Recovery Resource Guide
The mission of Manatee County Emergency Management is to reduce the loss of life and property and to protect our residents and visitors
from all hazards by leading the county in a comprehensive and risk based emergency management program of mitigation, preparedness,
response, and recovery.
FEMA may be able to help you with home repairs, temporary housing, or property damage (appliances, furniture, vehicle, etc). You may also qualify for help with child care, medical, lodging, moving, and funeral expenses.
FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers can help you with the process.
Red Cross Open Shelters and Disaster Relief Services
If an emergency has forced you to evacuate your home, or disrupted your access to essential services, the Red Cross may be able to help. Visit the interactive map for locations.
Crisis Cleanup has created a Hurricane Cleanup Hotline: (844) 965-1386.
If you need help cleaning up damage from the Hurricane Helene, call the number and ask for help. It will connect you with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able to assist with: muck, trees, tarp and debris. Services are free but not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. This hotline will remain open through Oct. 11.
The Salvation Army Disaster Relief Food Locations
The Salvation Army mobile feeding units (in partnership with Southern Baptist Disaster Relief kitchens) are providing free meals and drinks in five states: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens
A map and list of food pantries and soup kitchens in Manatee County.
Provides free disaster relief assistance, including flood cleanup, debris removal, and temporary roof tarping. Contact: 1-833-747-1234
RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES:
Florida SBDC
Website: sbdctampabay.com/resources/#disaster
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Low-interest loans for disaster recovery.
Website: Disaster Assistance | SBA
FEMA Guidance for Businesses
Businesses should gather documentation for financial assistance.
Website: FEMA
Florida Disaster Contractors Network
Connects homeowners with licensed contractors for emergency repairs.
Contact: Register at DCNOnline.org.
FloridaCommerce Private Sector Hotline
Provides business support in disaster recovery.
Contact: (850) 815-4925, or email [email protected].
Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Encourages lodging establishments to relax pet policies and waive pet fees for evacuees.
Contact: See updates via DBPR communications.
FDACS Agricultural Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program
Offers low-interest loans to farmers and ranchers for post-disaster recovery.
Contact: Email [email protected] or call 863-993-5460.
Disaster Distress Resources
Disasters are incredibly emotional and stressful experiences. These free resources are available to you, many 24/7.
| Disaster Distress Helpline (SAMHSA) | This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 to all residents who are experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. |
| Dial 2-1-1 | 2-1-1 provides free and confidential information and referral to Community Resources: Call 211 to be linked to your community provider. |
| Red Cross Disaster Distress Helpline | To reach out for free 24/7 counseling or support, call or text: 1-800-985-5990. |
| 988 Lifeline | The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7/365. Your conversations are free and confidential. (Call/text/chat) |
| Teledoc Health Disaster Hotline | We know you have urgent needs, concerns and decisions to attend to right now. That’s why we’re offering free, easy-to-access telehealth visits to help you, your family and your community get the care needed. |
Reading Resources
Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event: Coping With Retraumatization
American Psychological Association: Recovering Emotionally From Disaster
HelpGuide.org, How to Cope with Traumatic Events
American Psychiatric Association: Coping After Disaster
Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD Help for People Affected by Disasters