Six organizations are currently engaged in relief efforts for Hurricane Milton.

Six organizations are currently engaged in relief efforts for Hurricane Milton.
Six organizations are currently engaged in relief efforts for Hurricane Milton.

As a Category 3 hurricane, Hurricane Milton hit Florida's West Coast late Wednesday night.

Despite being downgraded from earlier predictions, the storm resulted in several tornadoes and significant flooding across the Florida Peninsula. By Thursday morning, over a million homes and businesses were left without electricity.

Despite the urging of local and federal governments, not all residents were able to evacuate before Hurricane Helene struck, leaving some areas still recovering from the aftermath that resulted in at least 220 deaths.

Although Florida is generally better equipped to handle tropical storms than areas like Asheville, North Carolina, which were caught off guard by flooding from Helene, the impact of Milton will still be substantial for parts of the Sunshine State.

Assistance is being provided by these organizations as recovery efforts begin for those affected by the storm.

Florida relief organizations

Several local organizations are providing support to Florida residents affected by the storms.

Volunteer Florida

The Florida Disaster Fund, managed by Volunteer Florida, is receiving federal and state funding to assist those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

United Way of Florida

In Florida, there are 28 local chapters of the international nonprofit organization United Way, all focused on enhancing communities through initiatives related to health, education, and financial stability.

The Disaster Recovery Fund of United Way of Florida is being utilized to aid affected communities.

Team Rubicon

The nonprofit organization Team Rubicon, led by veterans, sends volunteers to disaster-stricken areas to aid in storm preparation and cleanup. These volunteers, called "Greyshirts," assist in clearing debris, minimizing hazards, and repairing homes in affected communities.

National relief efforts

National organizations are providing assistance in affected areas.

American Red Cross

The Red Cross is providing evacuation shelters and emergency assistance on the ground. Check its website for more information.

World Central Kitchen

Central Kitchen has been delivering food and water to communities affected by Hurricane Helene and has positioned a relief team in Florida prior to Milton's arrival.

National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster directory, vetted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, recommends checking out organizations for relief in disaster-affected areas.

Numerous religious and non-religious organizations, including All Hands and Hearts and Americares, are offering diverse hurricane relief services through the directory.

Visit GuideStar or CharityNavigator to explore more nonprofits.

by Kamaron McNair

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