Special Needs Shelter Now Open

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – In anticipation of the effects of Hurricane Ian, Alachua County has now opened a Special Needs Shelter at the Alachua County Senior Recreation Center (5701 N.W. 34th Blvd., Gainesville).

Those considering using the emergency shelters, please remember that shelters are a last resort and should only be used by those living in homes that are potentially unsafe in high winds (e.g. mobile homes, manufactured homes, and others), people who live in flood-prone areas, and people who have nowhere else safe to go.

Special needs shelters provide one cot per patient, not caregiver. Caregivers are asked to bring any needed bedding. When packing to go to a shelter, please bring special dietary foods and any prescription medications. Also, bring spare clothing, personal care items (hygiene, toiletries, etc.), spare eyeglasses/contacts, and identification.

Alachua County has activated the 311 Emergency Information Line. This is for questions and rumor control. This number cannot receive texts. Please use 911 for bona fide emergencies only.

Residents are encouraged to have a basic emergency supply kit, an emergency preparedness plan, and to register for emergency alerts by texting ALACHUA TO 888-777.

See the latest from the National Weather Service in Jacksonville (This link is updated regularly). Visit Alachua County Ready for local updates.