DeSantis Announces Activation of Florida Disaster Fund in Preparation for Hurricane Idalia

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the activation of the Florida Disaster Fund to support communities impacted by Hurricane Idalia.

“The Florida Disaster Fund helps us fill the gaps for impacted families and cut through red tape,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This money goes a long way for families impacted by a storm and it is an important tool in the disaster recovery process.”

“Harnessing the power of the private sector is an important tool when it comes to getting resources into the hands of the people that need it most,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Following Hurricane Ian, we were blessed by the outpouring of generosity from individuals and businesses that wanted to help support Floridians. The Florida Disaster Fund is a great resource to ensure that those looking to provide relief have the maximum impact in supplementing needs and expediting recovery.”

“Governor and First Lady DeSantis have directed our team to work with our dedicated partners to get these funds to the communities that need it most. We will do all we can to support the impacted communities in the response and recovery efforts,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “The Florida Disaster Fund is an excellent way for the private sector and individuals to financially support relief organizations in the most affected areas."

During Hurricane Ian last year, the Florida Disaster Fund raised nearly $64 million to help in the recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian. This was more than double the support the disaster fund received following hurricanes Michael and Irma combined.

Donations made to the Volunteer Florida Foundation are tax-deductible. Donations may be made by visiting www.FloridaDisasterFund.org, or by mail to the below address. Checks should be made payable to the Volunteer Florida Foundation and should include "Florida Disaster Fund" in the memo line.

Volunteer Florida Foundation

Attention: Florida Disaster Fund

1545 Raymond Diehl Road Suite 250

Tallahassee, FL 32308

Idalia is expected to hit the Big Bend region of Florida as a Category 2 or 3 Hurricane tomorrow morning.