Hamilton County, OH (9/14/2018) —In anticipation of the impacts of Hurricane Florence to the Southeastern coast of the United States, Hamilton County Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (EMHSA) is monitoring the impacts of the hurricane, will maintain situational awareness, and will remain in contact with local partners and resources in the event that local assets are requested to aid in disaster efforts.

In order to prepare for costly relief efforts, cash donations are kindly being requested. A financial contribution is the most effective way to help ensure a steady flow of important services is available to those in need, as cash is flexible enough to meet the rapidly developing needs of disaster relief. Hamilton County EMHSA urges potential donors to ensure and confirm that all contributions are administered by a reputable organization. For a list of trustworthy organizations through which donations are being coordinated, please visit the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster Website at: https://www.nvoad.org/voad-members/national-members/.

An additional way to help support the disaster effort, is to volunteer time with a recognized relief and recovery organization. These non-profit organizations provide necessary training to equip volunteers with the knowledge and ability to assist in a safe and helpful manner following a disaster. It is important to note that those wishing to volunteer or donate their resources should not self-deploy to the disaster effort, but instead route their efforts through organizations already engaged in disaster relief. If interested in joining the relief effort as a volunteer, please visit https://www.nvoad.org/howtohelp/current-responses/.

Although monetary donations are preferred, non-perishable food items with a pull top opening mechanism; ready-to-eat dry goods (nuts, peanut butter, dried fruits); bottled water; unopened personal care products; cleaning supplies; paper products; infant and baby supplies; and first-aid items will also be accepted. For a list of acceptable donations and directions to the drop off location, please visit: http://m25m.org/help/product-donations/.