Ways to meet volunteer and donation need in Florida
For those Ohioans who want to help with either donations or volunteer service, Florida is coordinating donations and volunteer efforts.
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is watching the situation in Florida closely following Hurricane Ian. For those Ohioans who want to help with either donations or volunteer service, the State of Florida is using the Florida Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service to coordinate donations and volunteer efforts.
“Ohioans are generous, and it is a natural instinct to want to help, based on the tremendous damage left by Hurricane Ian,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Florida has a system in place to accept donations, and it’s important that you be sure you’re donating to a legitimate charity that will use funds exactly as intended.”
The Volunteer Florida website at www.volunteerflorida.org/serving-during-disasters/ offers the following methods for those who want to donate.
Cash
Cash is the most flexible and effective form of donation. To donate to the Florida Disaster Fund, visit the website at www.volunteerflorida.org or text DISASTER ($10) or DISASTER25 ($25) to 20222.
Confirm
If not donating cash, confirm there is a legitimate need before collecting items and material donations. Volunteers also are encouraged to affiliate with established organizations and ensure they are needed before visiting impacted areas.
Connect
Volunteers are a critical part of a well-coordinated disaster-recovery effort. To volunteer, visit the website above and register on the volunteer database. Be patient and do not go to Florida on your own to help. Organizations will contact qualified volunteers as soon as possible.