Our Community Braces for Hurricane Milton

Anticipating a second storm in just two weeks places a community in crisis, but here we are, together awaiting Hurricane Milton.

Along with all of you, our Community Foundation is closely monitoring Milton and working with nonprofit partners, local emergency management, and the philanthropic community to coordinate a response that helps our community withstand and respond to the storm. That Milton falls on the heels of Helene, which was extremely impactful to our barrier islands and coastal communities, makes this moment one of deep concern for our community, as we prioritize the health and welfare of those most impacted through funding support.

It is important for our community to remember we are strongest when we come together. Stay calm, take precautions, and heed orders from local authorities.

Our greatest priority is the safety of our neighbors, and, as we have activated our Season of Sharing fund early to support the workforce hit so hard by Helene, we stand by to evaluate how we can best serve those in need once Milton passes.

Our Community Foundation’s Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund, investing in equitable and holistic recovery, is also accepting donations. As with Hurricane Ian, the fund will be an essential resource for long-term recovery in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties responding to unmet needs once immediate emergency relief efforts have concluded.

On October 8, our partners with The Patterson Foundation announced a contribution of up to $3 million in new disaster relief and recovery funding to both of these initiatives.

To stay informed of vital local information, including shelter locations, evacuation orders, alerts and more, visit your county’s Emergency Services sites.

Charlotte County Emergency Management

DeSoto County Emergency Management Department

Manatee County Emergency Management

Sarasota County Emergency Management