Tampa Bay Seniors are Storm Kit Ready
AARP Tampa Bay, Duke Foundation, Neighborly Care Network and Pinellas County Emergency Management collaborated for a second year this June to assemble and distribute 1500 Storm Kits to Pinellas County seniors. Duke and AARP Tampa Bay volunteers assembled the kits and partnered with Neighborly Care Network to distribute them to seniors from seven congregate meal sites across the county with the remainder delivered to low-income seniors in their homes.
“We want to make sure everybody has their supplies so when a hurricane comes, they’re not running to the store trying to get their last minute supplies. You need to know your risk, make a plan, and stay informed,” said Cathie Perkins, Pinellas County emergency management director.
Each year, hurricane season runs from Jun. 1 to Nov. 30, yet it’s difficult to determine the exact date or time of the hurricane or the extent of its pending destruction that could leave residents vulnerable to leaks, flooding and more.
“In the kits are ponchos, flashlights, first aid kits and waterproof pouches for cell phones,” said Amy Matovina, AARP Tampa Bay program specialist for volunteer outreach. “This is my second year for this event and I think these days are great because the seniors know we’re here giving them important information through these kits.”
The day also hosted county speakers to include the Largo Fire Department representative Summer Mahn who informed attendees about critical information they need to know and the various options available to them.
“With the thought of evacuation, knowing your zone is one of the number one things to know and the risk of whether you need to evacuate,” said Mahn explaining hazards and options at the Largo congregate meal site. “Along with your guides, we have a list of non-evacuation hotels and you can also stay in a shelter.”
According to Mahn, there are three different types of shelters ranging from those that accommodate adults without pets as well as pet-friendly shelters. The third shelter is a special needs shelter that offers support for seniors requiring special medical attention. People who know they need additional support can register in advance with their local fire department or county.
“When we work with community partners, we get to collectively leverage our information and resources and serve a wider audience,” said Michelle Cyr, associate state director for community outreach in Tampa Bay. “There’s a lot to consider to be prepared for hurricanes from food and water on hand to your medicines and important documents. That’s why we worked together ahead of time to equip residents with the resources that will help them through this hurricane season.”
Regular guests to the congregation sites like Jacob “Jack’ Santhouse acknowledged that waiting until after the storm to take action is too late.
“I’m going to put my box right outside my kitchen door in the garage,” said Santhouse and Seminole County resident. “It’s handy to have it and just to know that somebody thought of folks this way. I think that’s excellent.”
For more resources on disaster prepareness, click here.
