Post-Hurricane Assistance for Storm Damage in Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Counties

When a hurricane strikes, the aftermath can leave communities reeling. In Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties, knowing where to turn for help can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide to immediate response actions, recovery resources, and community support systems available to those affected.

Immediate Response After the Hurricane

1. Ensure Safety First

   • Assess your surroundings for hazards like downed power lines, flooding, or unstable structures. Stay indoors until you receive official clearance to go outside.

2. Document Damage

   • Capture photos and videos of any property damage. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and assistance applications.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

   • Notify your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Have your documentation ready to facilitate a smoother claim.

4. Seek Emergency Shelters

   • If you need immediate shelter, check local emergency management websites for open shelters:
     • Pinellas County: Call (727) 464-3800 or visit the Pinellas County Emergency Management site.
     • Pasco County: Contact (727) 847-8137 for the latest shelter locations.
     • Hillsborough County: Call (813) 272-5900 for updates on shelter availability.

Recovery Resources

1. FEMA Disaster Assistance

   • If your home has suffered significant damage, apply for FEMA assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). This assistance can help with temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.

2. Crisis Cleanup

   • A network of volunteers is available to help with debris removal and minor repairs. Call (844) 965-1386 to request assistance.

3. Local Nonprofits

   • Metropolitan Ministries (Tampa and Pasco locations) provides food, shelter, and supplies for storm victims.
   • Feeding Tampa Bay offers food distribution points throughout the region. Check their site for updates on locations and schedules.

Community Support

1. Mental Health Resources

   • The emotional impact of a hurricane can be profound. Reach out for support:
     • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 support.
     • Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 for immediate emotional support.

2. Volunteer Opportunities

   • If you’re looking to help, consider volunteering:
     • Volunteer Florida: Find local volunteer opportunities at VolunteerFlorida.org.
     • Local churches and community organizations often coordinate relief efforts. Contact them to see how you can get involved.

3. Donations

   • Monetary donations are often the most effective way to help. Consider donating to organizations like the American Red Cross or Feeding Tampa Bay to support their ongoing relief efforts.

Additional Resources

• Florida Emergency Management Hotline: 1-800-342-3557
• Pinellas County Emergency Management: (727) 464-3800
• Pasco County Emergency Management: (727) 847-8137
• Hillsborough County Emergency Management: (813) 272-5900

Pinellas County Resources

• American Red Cross Shelters
  Shelter Finder
  General Website

• St. Petersburg Free Clinic
  Address: 863 3rd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  Phone: (727) 821-1200

• Feeding Tampa Bay - Pinellas Distribution
  
  

Pasco County Resources

• Metropolitan Ministries Pasco
  Address: 3214 US Hwy 19, Holiday, FL 34691
  Phone: (727) 937-3268

• One Community Now
  Phone: (727) 859-4579

• Suncoast Hope Center
  Phone: (727) 847-5534

• United Way Suncoast
  Phone: Dial 211 for assistance

Hillsborough County Resources

• Metropolitan Ministries Hillsborough
  Address: 2002 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
  Phone: (813) 209-1000

• Salvation Army Tampa
  Address: 1603 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
  Phone: (813) 226-0055

• Feeding Tampa Bay - Hillsborough Distribution

• United Way Suncoast
  Phone: Dial 211 for assistance

National Resources

• FEMA Disaster Assistance
  Phone: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

• Crisis Cleanup
  Phone: (844) 965-1386

• Crisis Text Line
  Text: HOME to 741741

• Disaster Distress Helpline
  Call: 1-800-985-5990
  Text: TalkWithUs to 66746

• Volunteer Florida

• American Red Cross

• Feeding Tampa Bay

• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
  
  

Stay Informed and Connected

As recovery progresses, it’s crucial to stay informed. Sign up for alerts from your local emergency management offices and keep up with local news. Your safety is paramount—avoid returning to unsafe areas and heed guidance from local authorities.

By working together, we can help our communities recover and rebuild. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.