Disaster Recovery
Resources to help our community members in the wake of a disaster.
After any disaster, United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties focuses on mid- and long-term recovery, but we also recognize that some community members may need immediate relief. Our Disaster Recovery Services Resource Page provides information to those in need of help.
In times of disaster, every United Way works diligently to organize resources and connect those in need with those who can help, coordinate volunteer efforts, bridge communication and leverage relationships to ensure our neighbors have the support they need to recover. We’ll work with our partners on mid- and long-term recovery.
If you’re in need of support, please call 211. You can find additional information on this page.
Additional evacuation information can be found here: FDEM Flood Evacuation Zones. Stay connected with us on our social media platforms for the latest information.
Access 211
- Online resources: Click here
- Phone: 888-370-7188
- Email: uw211help@gmail.com
- Text: text your zip code to 898-211
- Online Chat: Click here to begin the online chat
Get Help
FEMA Assistance
If your home or job was impacted by a natural disaster, you may be eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance. Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 to see if you are eligible and to apply for financial assistance.
When you apply, have the following information on hand:
- The address of your damaged home or apartment
- Names of people living in your household
- A description of your disaster damages
- Insurance information
- Your Social Security Number
- A telephone number where you can be reached or left a message
- An address where you can get mail
- If you want your disaster assistance funds sent directly to your bank, provide FEMA your bank information.
Flood Claims
If your home or business sustained damage from the hurricane due to flooding:
- Contact your insurance agent immediately.
- National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) – If you’re an NFIP policyholder, visit this site to begin your claim.
County Resources
Lake County Resources
Sumter County Resources
Florida Blue
Florida Blue’s mission before, during and after a storm is to help you and your loved ones get the necessary care and medications you need. If you were affected by the recent storms, Florida Blue is here for you. Click here for information and resources.
Emotional Support & Assistance
FIND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT THROUGH THE NATIONAL DISASTER DISTRESS HELPLINE
Connectivity Resources
- For communities struggling with connectivity, please see this Starlink Hurricane Support Article.
- Comcast Opens Over 261,000 Free Xfinity WiFi Hotspots Across Florida Ahead of Milton’s Arrival | Comcast Florida
Gas & Travel
- Operational Gas Stations
- Routes
- Report price gouging: (866) 966-7226
Office of Insurance
Many insurance offices in Florida may have also been impacted by recent storms. For anyone having a problem reaching their agent or insurance office contact:
Office of Insurance Regulations
Division of Financial Services
1-877-693-5236
myfloridacfo.com
Housing & Legal Assistance
- Available Housing: for Florida residents who have been displaced by a storm.
- Free Legal Assistance: www.floridabar.org or (866) 550-2929
- Storm Shelters
SBA and Agricultural Assistance
SBA Disaster Assistance Loans
- Visit: www.SBA.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
- Call: 1-800-659-2955
USDA – Agriculture Assistance
- Visit: www.Farmers.gov/protection-recovery
- Call: 1-352-379-4500
Ways YOU Can Help
Make a donation
United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties United We Care Recovery Fund – Donations will help support disaster relief efforts in our communities.
Volunteer
We encourage you to register as a volunteer to join community volunteer efforts. Also, follow us on social media for alerts.
DISASTER Relief Resources
American Red Cross
The United States’ largest emergency response organization. Site includes a missing person’s registry and a variety of disaster preparation and response materials.
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Hurricane Information Federal site includes information on preventing illnesses and infections, food safety, worker response, and other topics.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is responsible for responding to national disasters, training first responders, and managing the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. For Hurricane Helene information and claims, go to https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-helene.
Firstgov.gov
The U.S. government’s official web portal. Site includes information on finding loved ones, helping survivors, and other topics.
Crisis Cleanup
Crisis Cleanup is a collaborative disaster work order management platform that improves coordination, reduces duplication of efforts, improves efficiency, and improves volunteers’ experience.
Emergency Alerts
AlertFlorida – Statewide Notification Initiative, learn how to receive emergency alerts and other public safety notifications in your community.
Operation Blue Roof: 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258).
Applicants who use 711 or video relay service can call 800-621-3362. Those who are deaf, hearing impaired or have a speech disability and use TTY can call 800-462-7585.