The Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency initiative explores and strengthens the efforts of people, organizations, and communities in navigating disasters. 

Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency Newsletter

Catalyzing Engagement as Disasters Swirl

Hurricane Debby Special Edition

On August 4th and 5th, Hurricane Debby made itself known in the Suncoast region, dumping over eighteen inches of rain in areas of our four-county region. This inundation created a myriad of challenges, ranging from minor street flooding to fully flooded homes and businesses. Although the winds from Hurricane Debby were not the issue in this situation, we again were reminded of the potentially devastating impacts of rising water as we saw rescues from homes and vehicles impacted by the torrential rain. 

This special edition of The Patterson Foundations Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency (CPR-R) newsletter provides information and updates on the impacts of what was anticipated to be a minor event for the Suncoast region.

As friends and neighbors affected by Hurricane Debby start to assess the storm's impacts, know that our time-tested and trusted initiatives are here to help.

Season of Sharing assists with housing costs, childcare, utilities, and transportation expenses. Those needing help can call 2-1-1 for assistance.

Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund supports our nonprofit partners focused on meeting long-term recovery needs such as mental health and legal services.

To support those who are affected by Hurricane Debby, and to learn more about how to contribute to either of these initiatives, please visit the Community Foundation of Sarasota County website.

FEMA Assistance

Florida homeowners and renters in Manatee and Sarasota counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Debby may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, including displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss, or other disaster-caused needs. 

There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

What You’ll Need When You Apply

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Beware of Scammers

There have been reports of scammers in our area attempting to take advantage of those impacted by the flooding. Be aware of those asking for the bulk of the cost upfront or who have low estimates for the cost of the repairs. 

Do your research on the legitimacy of the company and its reputation. Read reviews and ask others for their recommendations. Verify that the company is licensed and insured, and never pay the full amount of the repair until the work is completed. If you think you or a loved one has been scammed, call 866-966-7226. More information is available here (Citizens Services). 

Buying a Used Car?

Follow these tips to check if the vehicle you are buying from a dealer or a private party has been flood-damaged:

• If the vehicle is titled in Florida, you can search the vehicle VIN through the department’s Motor Vehicle Information Check to confirm the vehicle description and check for brands, or visit the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) prior to purchasing a vehicle to find information on the vehicle’s title, most recent odometer reading and brand history.
• Use your nose! If a car smells musty, it has likely been exposed to water. If it has a strong smell of air freshener, it may be masking the smell of mildew. Check the carpet and upholstery for strong smells and mold.
• Look for a waterline or signs of mud inside the vehicle. Places often overlooked are the glove box, under the dash, and the trunk.
• Check under the vehicle for signs of rust or corrosion that seem out of place for the vehicle’s age and location.

Further Information and Disaster Relief Resources

Local organizations have many resources to share. Check out these organizations as you plan for this hurricane season.

Federal Disaster Assistance

Provides disaster survivors with information, support, services, and access to apply for disaster assistance through joint data-sharing efforts between federal, state, local, and private sector partners

United Way Suncoast (Sarasota, Manatee, Desoto)

United Way of Charlotte County (Charlotte)

Local disaster recovery information and resources.

American Red Cross

The United States’ largest emergency response organization. Site includes a missing person’s registry and a variety of disaster preparation and response materials.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Hurricane Information Federal site includes information on preventing illnesses and infections, food safety, worker response, and other topics.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

FEMA is responsible for responding to national disasters, training first responders, and managing the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. For Hurricane Ian information and claims, go to 4673 | FEMA.gov

Firstgov.gov

The U.S. government’s official web portal. The site includes information on finding loved ones, helping survivors, and other topics.

Cope, Adapt, Innovate

The Patterson Foundation understands that the recovery process following a disaster or unexpected challenge includes three distinct phases:

Cope: Following a disaster or unexpected challenge, we first focus on ensuring our safety and addressing the immediate needs essential to survival. 

Adapt: Getting accustomed to the reality of living with the situation, we adopt new systems and methods to create stability. 

Innovate: Using imagination combined with a possibility mindset, we discover fresh ways to live, work, and play. 

Phases of CPR-R



In the Discovery Phase, we will connect with and learn to identify existing community resources related to community engagement in the disaster preparedness, recovery, and resiliency arenas. Additionally, we will connect beyond our four-county region to identify programs and efforts to be replicated locally and create spaces for others to collaborate.

In the Sharing/Engagement Phase – we will engage people, organizations, and communities as we share our learnings. 

In the Action Phase - We will strengthen our communities’ disaster preparedness, recovery, and resiliency in various ways.

We welcome your thoughts or any questions. Contact Karen Windon at kwindontpf@gmail.com.