HERNANDO COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Hernando County is mobilizing its resources to support the community through recovery efforts.

Sheriff Al Nienhuis has come forward to talk about these efforts, highlighting the importance of working together and showing kindness to all residents impacted. As the community deals with the effects of the storm, different services have been set up to make sure everyone can get the help they need.

Access to Personal Hygiene Services

Sheriff Nienhuis announced that people needing personal hygiene support can now use temporary hygiene trailers located at 4054 Shoal Line Blvd. in Hernando Beach, the site of the former R Beach restaurant once stood. Community members can find showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities in these “comfort stations.” Users should remember to bring their own soap, towels, and laundry detergent. This program is vital for preserving dignity and health during these tough times.

“There are some washers and dryers for clothes, as well as some toilets available,” says the sheriff. “There may even be a shower or two here, but definitely restroom facilities and washers and dryers for you to help clean up.”

FEMA Assistance Available

“If you’re underinsured or you don’t have insurance, FEMA assistance has been approved for the State of Florida, generally, and Hernando County, particularly,” says Sheriff Nienhuis. Residents can apply for federal help by calling FEMA at 800-621-3362 or visiting the FEMA website. For mobile users, the FEMA app is available for download on the App Store or Google Play, offering easy access to important information.

Continued storm cleanup
The Sheriff posted on Facebook that inmates from Hernando County Jail have been actively helping with storm recovery. Yesterday morning, they worked at Bayport Park and then went to the shelter at West Hernando Middle School to take it down. Later, they spent a few hours cleaning up debris at Jenkins Creek.
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Inmates sweep branches and tree limbs off the street as part of hurricane restoration efforts. Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
An inmate takes a leaf blower to the street to remove dirt. Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Courtesy: HCSO
Emergency Food Distribution

Feeding Tampa Bay will also offer hygiene services along with an emergency food distribution at the Family Resource Center at 7442 Shoal Line Blvd. in Spring Hill.  This event will take place on Monday, Sept. 30, and Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. The goal is to help families facing food insecurity caused by the storm.

Ongoing Local State of Emergency

As of Sept. 29, 2024, the Hernando County Executive Policy Group has renewed the local state of emergency through Proclamation No. 2024-05. This allows the county government to quickly obtain resources, hire necessary staff, and use volunteers for recovery efforts. The local state of emergency will last for seven days unless it is ended earlier.

Sheriff Nienhuis urges all residents to stay informed by visiting the Hernando County Emergency Management website for continuous updates regarding storm recovery efforts.