Tropical Storm Helene Update 6 – Shelter openings on Wednesday

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Alachua County will open a special needs shelter at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 25, and two pet-friendly general population shelters at 4 p.m.

Residents going to the special needs shelter should bring their caregivers. The locations of the shelters will be announced tomorrow (Wednesday). 

General population shelters do not provide cots or beds. Bring any needed bedding. When packing to go to a shelter, please bring special dietary foods, baby food, diapers (and other child necessities), prescription medications, and a small cooler of ice if refrigeration is needed, as the shelter cannot be responsible for your medications. Also, bring spare clothing, personal care items (hygiene, toiletries, etc.), spare eyeglasses/contacts, and identification.

Residents with pets are encouraged to bring basic pet supplies such as collars, leashes, crates, carriers, towels, blankets, pet medications, pet food, etc. Animal Resources will have supplemental supplies on hand for those in need. We encourage citizens to bring veterinary records indicating their pets are properly vaccinated

Animals, however, without such records will be vaccinated upon intake to minimize the spread of contagious diseases. Please remember that animals must be properly restrained throughout their stay at the emergency shelter for the safety of all involved citizens and pets.

Stay tuned for more information on which shelter locations will be open. To stay in the loop with the most up-to-date information, text the word ALACHUA to 888-777.