In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, along with many parts of Florida, continue to grapple with widespread damage. Both residents and businesses are navigating the challenges of recovery, and there are plenty of ways for the community to help. Here’s how you can get involved and assist those affected.
Several local businesses are going the extra mile to support the community. On September 29, Kahwa will offer free coffee (details here). Other businesses such as The Violet Stone, Pure Kitchen, A Good Human St. Pete, Rabbit Rabbit St. Pete, and Gulfport Brewery are also stepping up to make a difference.
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Cooling Stations Open in Pinellas County
For residents still without power, several cooling stations have been set up to provide relief and a place to charge devices. Here’s where you can find them:
St. Petersburg:
- Azalea Recreation Center (1600 72nd St. N) – Open Sept. 28-29, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Enoch D. Davis Center (1111 18th Ave. S) – Open Sept. 28-29, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Roberts Recreation Center (1246 50th Ave. N) – Open Sept. 28-29, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Community Locations:
- City on a Hill Church (4265 13th Ave. N) – Open Sept. 28, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Mount Zion AME Church (1045 16th St. S) – Open Sept. 28, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Mount Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church (955 20th St. S) – Open Sept. 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline
For those needing help with cleanup efforts, the Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline is available at (844) 965-1386. This hotline connects people with local volunteers who can assist with tasks like removing debris, cleaning up flood damage, and providing tarps. While services are free, availability is limited, and the hotline will remain open until October 11, 2024.
Additional Resources for Families
- BabyCycle Diaper Bank: Located at 6543 46th St. N #1102 in Pinellas Park, BabyCycle provides essential supplies like diapers to families in need.
- Mutual Aid Disaster Relief: A grassroots network offering disaster assistance through solidarity and direct action.
Feeding Tampa Bay and Emergency Food Support
Feeding Tampa Bay continues to distribute emergency food and water to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. If you or someone you know needs support, visit their website to learn more about their relief efforts.
Florida Disaster Fund
The Florida Disaster Fund is the state’s official private fundraiser for disaster recovery. Donations to the fund help communities rebuild and recover from emergencies like Hurricane Helene. Visit the fund’s website to contribute or learn more.
American Red Cross Relief Efforts
The American Red Cross has deployed hundreds of disaster workers and provided shelter to more than 2,600 people. Their relief efforts will continue throughout the recovery process. To donate or volunteer, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
CARE Emergency Cash Assistance
CARE is providing emergency cash assistance to help families in underserved areas affected by Hurricane Helene. These funds support critical needs such as food, water, housing, and medication. To learn more or donate, visit CARE’s website.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Florida offers several ways to get involved in recovery efforts. From cleanup to assisting with food distribution, volunteers are crucial in the wake of this disaster.
Support Local Businesses and First Responders
Many local businesses are stepping up with special offers for first responders and residents dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. We’ll continue to share these deals through our Instagram and Facebook stories, so stay connected for updates.
For more information on relief efforts, be sure to follow Pinellas County and City of St. Petersburg on social media. Every little bit helps as we come together to support our community after Hurricane Helene.
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