Together, Let’s Be Prepared for Hurricane Season

Last fall, Hurricane Ian made landfall south of Punta Gorda, decimating the Gulf Coast region of Florida. Gulf Coast Community Foundation responded immediately with critical humanitarian aid to those in need. Hurricane recovery and rebuilding efforts in our community are still going strong. Together with our donors, we have provided over 200 grants to support organizations helping communities recover. In turn, we have awarded nearly $3 million in immediate relief to area nonprofits devastated by the storm.

While we are overjoyed to see stories of hope come in from our nonprofit partners, we know that the journey of recovery and rebuilding after Hurricane Ian will continue for years to come.

Now through November 30, we want everyone in our region to be prepared and as ready as possible for this coming hurricane season.

Here are five important resources for you to have and share during this season. We encourage you to research and utilize these resources. --

Know Your Zone, Know Your Home; Florida Division of Emergency Management - https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/know-your-zone-know-your-home/

Plan & Prepare; Florida Division of Emergency Management - https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/

Local Hurricane Preparedness Expos; Sarasota County Government - https://www.scgov.net/government/emergency-services/hurricane-preparedness-6291

For stress and anxiety as the season approaches, Resilient Retreat Kind Line – 941.343.0039

For any other social or human service needs, call 2-1-1

Additionally, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has some excellent resources aimed at hurricane response and preparation, including preparation tips for unhoused individuals, tips for strengthening emotional well-being before a hurricane, managing traumatic stress after a hurricane, and more.

Gulf Coast stands ready to continue our steadfast support together with our philanthropic friends, partners, and community. For we are all in this, together.