How Lakeland is helping out

How Lakeland is supporting Hurricane Ian relief efforts

Florida is definitely no stranger to hurricane season — but Ian has kept us on our toes. While we aren’t sure exactly what the full extent of the storm’s impact will be overall (follow the current track here), there’s one thing we can be certain of — Lakelanders will be looking to lend a hand to those affected.

Here are just a few ways you can get involved. ⤵️

Donate

GiveWell Community Foundation + United Way of Central Florida teamed up to create the United Community Relief Fund which will support residents of Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties. You can also donate to the South Sarasota County Relief Fund.

OneBlood is encouraging all eligible donors to give blood to help those impacted by the hurricane.

The Peace River Center located in Bartow offers emotional + crisis support via hotline. It plans to continue its 24-hour crisis and residential programs through the storm. Make an online donation.

Volunteer

Polk County is accepting applications for disaster volunteers. After filling out your application, you will be contacted for availability.

Volunteer to be a Disaster Shelter Worker for Polk County and provide support for those displaced from their homes and in need of temporary shelter.

American Red Cross needs volunteers in multiple areas, including its disaster action team, shelter services, and disaster health. Search for volunteer openings here.

How are you helping out? Be a role model and tell us about it.

Weather

76º | Rain | 90% chance of rain

Civic

Stay up to date on power outages in Polk County and throughout Florida. The Ledger has a live updating map to help you keep track of outages in your area. 🕯️ (The Ledger)

Edu

Polk County Public Schools has extended its closures through Fri., Sept. 30. Sports + after-school activities are also canceled. Stay tuned via phone call, email, and social media for further closure plans. 🏫

Number

1,224. The amount of people registered in Polk County’s designated shelters as of the morning of Wed., Sept. 28 — much lower than the occupancy during Hurricane Irma. Polk County may be able to house up to 45,000 people, including those with medical needs and pets. (The Ledger)

List

Wondering what’s safe to eat after a power outage? Use this chart to determine what is safe to eat from your fridge and freezer. Keep the hard cheeses, uncut fruits + bread, but toss the eggs and cooked pasta. 🍳 (WFTS)

Kids

If you’re looking for ways to keep the kiddos occupied during the storm, the City of Lakeland Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts has you covered. Download swan + plant nursery activity books from its website — under the “Activities to do at home” tab. 🖍️

Correction

We tricked you. Yesterday, we told you that the Lakeside Village Halloween Bash would run on Oct. 5. The trick-or-treat event — which features circus performers and free games — will be on Fri., Oct. 28 from 5-7 p.m.

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THE WRAP

Today’s issue was written by Jessalin.

Editor’s pick: A few last-minute tips as Lakeland battens down the hatches:

📱 Stay informed with Polk County’s emergency notifications on Alert Polk.
🦺 Observe proper safety precautions when using a generator.
☎️ Peace River’s 24/7 hotline (863-519-3744) is available for emotional support.

Missed yesterday’s newsletter? Read more last-minute tips to make sure you’re hurricane ready here.

Connect with us.

Editorial: Rilee Delgado, Connor Keith, Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto, Kaylee Holland, Ashlea Hearn, Emily Shea | Send us a scoop, question, or feedback.

Sales: Kailey Burke | Advertise with us.

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