Local organizations in Doral, Florida are gearing up to provide aid and supplies for the impending Hurricane Milton. Global Empowerment Movement (GEM) volunteers have been working tirelessly to prepare for the potential devastation that the hurricane may bring. After sending truckloads of supplies to the west coast of Florida following Hurricane Helene, GEM is once again stepping up to support the communities in Milton’s path.
Michael Capponi, the founder and CEO of GEM, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating that they have already sent over a million and a half dollars worth of supplies since Hurricane Helene. In addition to GEM, other local organizations are also mobilizing to send aid to those in need. Feeding South Florida in Broward County has dispatched semi trucks filled with water, food, MREs, and diapers. President and CEO Paco Velez emphasized the importance of supporting not just their own community, but also neighboring food banks in Tampa, Sarasota, and Fort Myers.
Farm Share, a food bank in Homestead, is also preparing pallets of supplies to be stationed near the affected areas. CEO Stephen Shelley highlighted the organization’s focus on providing immediate relief in the first 10 to 15 days after the storm hits. They aim to support the communities until long-term recovery efforts can be established.
While short-term needs such as food, water, and toiletries are being addressed, these organizations are also looking towards the long-term recovery process. They will continue to distribute supplies like cleaning materials and eventually move towards rebuilding materials like drywall to help residents get back on their feet.
Monetary donations are crucial for sustaining these relief efforts, and organizations like GEM are also accepting bulk items from donors. Volunteers are encouraged to lend a helping hand in packing boxes and providing support to those in need. The collective efforts of these local organizations demonstrate the power of community solidarity in times of crisis.
In addition to providing aid and supplies, these organizations are also focusing on the importance of community resilience and recovery. By working together and supporting each other, they are paving the way for a stronger and more united response to natural disasters like Hurricane Milton. As they continue to prepare and mobilize resources, the message is clear: we are all in this together, and together, we will overcome any challenge that comes our way.
