Want To Help With Hermine Recovery Efforts? While Welcome, Officials Say Call Ahead First

WFSU | By Sascha Cordner

Published September 8, 2016 at 5:23 PM EDT

Volunteer Florida has a few tips for those interested in volunteering their time or donating money to help Hurricane Hermine victims.

Following Hermine, there’s been a lot of Floridians interested in helping those affected.

“There’s been an outpouring of support from communities and folks who want to assist their neighbors in their communities who have been impacted by this disaster,” said Volunteer Florida spokeswoman Erin VanSickle. “So, we’ve definitely seen that across Florida.”

And, VanSickle says it’s best to remember the three C’s: cash, confirm, and connect. In this case, cash means financial support for local relief organizations.

“Because it allows those organizations to purchase and provide supplies, like food and water and cleanup kits. We also want to confirm that there is a need, before people collect or send donations,” she added. “Donations of items can overwhelm relief organizations and actually inhibit the recovery process, unless those donations of items are actually needed. So, we definitely want people to confirm that there’s a need.”

And, lastly, VanSickle says it’s important prospective volunteers also call ahead to make sure they’re needed by connecting with their local emergency management, relief organizations, or Volunteer Florida.

For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner .