United Way of Broward County Is Here to Help You Stay Safe and Ready
by Alexis Basgil, MPA, Director of Financial Prosperity and Emergency Management at United Way of Broward County
United Way has long been at the forefront of disaster-response efforts — providing financial resources, coordinating volunteer work, and ensuring people in need receive assistance. Our work includes immediate relief focused on emergency response — such as food distribution and temporary shelter — as well as long-term initiatives to build resilience.
Our United Way collaborates with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and corporate partners to create sustainable recovery plans to revitalize our community.
Examples of how we coordinate recovery efforts include:
- Delivering financial assistance and fundraising — After a disaster, United Way of Broward County activates emergency relief funds to support rebuilding efforts. It mobilizes donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations to provide financial aid directly to affected communities.
- Connecting people to resources — Recovery is a daunting process, and navigating government aid can be overwhelming. United Way of Broward County serves as a bridge, connecting people affected by disaster with vital resources, including housing assistance, employment opportunities, and counseling services.
- Recruiting volunteers and increasing community engagement — After a disaster, volunteers have a crucial role in cleanup efforts, such as rebuilding homes and offering emotional support to survivors. United Way of Broward County coordinates volunteers to ensure a well-organized response to whatever disaster may occur in our community. If you are interested in volunteering to assist during times of disaster, please sign up here.
- Assisting with mental health and social services: United Way of Broward County works with local mental health professionals to provide trauma counseling, crisis intervention, and other critical emotional well-being services to individuals struggling with post-disaster stress.
- Advocating for policy and preparedness — In addition to coordinating direct recovery efforts, our United Way engages in advocacy work, such as promoting stronger disaster-preparedness policies and community-resilience programs. By collaborating with local and statewide lawmakers, we are helping to create frameworks to mitigate future disaster risks.
Hurricane season in Broward County runs from June 1 to November 30, and being prepared is essential to protecting your home, family, and neighbors. With South Florida’s history of powerful storms, residents must take proactive steps to ensure safety and minimize damage.
Here are eight ways you can prepare for this hurricane season, covering everything from securing emergency kits to having evacuation plans ready.
- Understand the Risks
Broward County is vulnerable to strong winds, storm surges, flooding, and power outages during hurricanes. Knowing the potential dangers helps residents prepare effectively. Stay informed by:
- monitoring local weather updates from the National Hurricane Center
- signing up for Broward County emergency alerts
- following official sources like the City of Fort Lauderdale’s hurricane preparedness site
- Create a Hurricane Plan
Careful planning ensures that you and your family know what to do before, during, and after a storm. Key steps include:
- having family meetings to discuss emergency procedures
- identifying evacuation routes and shelter locations
- assigning responsibilities to secure your home and gather supplies
- making arrangements for pets in case of evacuation
- Build an Emergency Kit
Having a 72-hour supply kit for emergencies is crucial. Essential items include:
- water (one gallon per person per day)
- non-perishable food (canned goods, protein bars, manual can opener)
- flashlights and batteries
- first-aid kit and prescription medications
- important documents in a waterproof container
- cash (ATMs may not work during power outages)
- items for personal hygiene (soap, wipes, toilet paper)
- emergency contacts and local shelter information
Visit this page for a comprehensive checklist of disaster supplies.
- Secure Your Home
Protecting your property reduces storm damage. Consider:
- installing hurricane shutters or boarding up windows
- clearing debris from yards to prevent flying objects
- checking roof and garage doors for vulnerabilities
- trimming trees to minimize falling branches
- having a stock of sandbags to prevent flooding
- Know Your Evacuation Zone
Broward County has designated evacuation zones based on flood risk. If an evacuation order is issued:
- leave early to avoid traffic congestion
- follow official routes to shelters or safe locations
- take your emergency kit and important documents
- inform family members of your whereabouts
For more information, please visit Hurricane Evacuation Information.
- Stay Informed During the Storm
Reliable communication is key during a hurricane. Keep updated by:
- listening to emergency broadcasts on battery-powered radios
- using social media for updates from local authorities
- following official sources like Broward County’s Official Hurricane Site
- Prepare for Power Outages
Hurricanes often cause extended power disruptions. Be ready by:
- charging devices and having backup power banks
- having a full stock of ice to preserve food
- using flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards
- knowing generator safety — never use indoors due to carbon monoxide risks
- Plan for Post-Storm Recovery
Once the storm passes, recovery efforts begin. Important steps include:
- checking for structural damage before re-entering your home
- avoiding flooded areas due to contamination and electrical hazards
- contacting insurance providers for damage claims
- helping neighbors and supporting community relief efforts
Hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility among everyone in Broward County. By staying informed, creating a plan, and securing your home, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Preparation today ensures safety tomorrow.
Recovering from disasters like a hurricane is not a short-term endeavor — it can take years to rebuild communities and restore stability. United Way of Broward County remains committed to standing by affected individuals long after the initial relief efforts are completed. Our teams, community partners, and volunteers work diligently to help families as they regain their independence, children return to school, and businesses reopen.
Whether through making donations, volunteering, or participating in advocacy, you can take an active role in supporting United Way’s impact on disaster recovery. By joining forces with the expansive work we do across Broward County, you can help our community stronger and more prepared for future challenges.
For more information, please visit United Way of Broward County’s Hurricane Resource Center.
