SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — While much of Central Florida was spared the worst of Hurricane Helene, one local resident is stepping up to help those hit hardest by the storm.

What You Need To Know

  • Seminole County officials are supporting local volunteer efforts, with more 100 organizations assisting recovery efforts for those impacted by Hurricane Helene

  • Julia Cole is collecting donations to help communities in the Big Bend area hit by the storm

  • She has set up three drop-off locations — two in Geneva and one in Sanford

Seminole County resident Julia Cole has launched a donation drive to support communities in the Big Bend area devastated by the hurricane.

After seeing the destruction left in the storm’s wake, Cole quickly took action. She is collecting essential supplies and plans to drive them herself to Steinhatchee, a community about three hours north of Central Florida.

“No way to get around,” Cole said. “Most of the local convenience stores and the gas stations, they’re gone. So they don’t even have the resources to go anywhere to get the supplies that they need. Even if it’s just one truckload, it’s going to make a difference to somebody who needs it.”

Cole has set up three donation drop-off points for community members to contribute. One is located at Sanford Paws in Sanford, and two are situated in Geneva. She plans to deliver the collected goods directly to those in need later this week.

Local businesses have rallied behind Cole’s efforts. The owner of a Mobile gas station in Geneva heard about the initiative and offered his location as an additional drop-off point. 

Alan Harris, Director of Seminole County Emergency Management, highlighted the importance of local efforts like Cole’s. While Seminole County saw less extensive damage compared to the Big Bend region, residents still experienced issues like roof damage and downed trees.

Harris emphasized that the county’s priority is road and stormwater system recovery, while volunteer organizations help with other needs.

“We have to focus on the roads, the stormwater, and other systems,” Harris said. “But we’re connecting individuals with these wonderful organizations that are volunteering their time to help.”

Harris said Seminole County partners with more than 100 organizations to assist with recovery efforts.

As of now, Cole’s donation drive is off to a strong start, with contributions already pouring in at both the Mobile gas station in Geneva and Sanford Paws. She remains hopeful that the community will continue to donate throughout the week.

“In less than 24 hours of posting the flyer on social media, we’ve already collected donations at both locations," she said. "I can’t wait to see how much we collect by the end of the week to make a difference up there."

Cole said she plans to make her first supplies drop-off this weekend and is prepared to continue her efforts as long as donations keep coming in.

A full list of suggested items is below: 

  • Water
  • Sports drinks
  • Baby wipes
  • Diapers
  • Baby formula
  • Sunscreen
  • Plastic utensil and plates
  • Manual can openers
  • Trash bags
  • Non-perishable foods and canned goods  
  • Cleaning supplies, bleach, brooms, mops, etc.
  • Toiletries
  • Pet food (dog and cat)
  • Plastic Bins
  • Generators, Extension Cords, coolers
  • Air Mattress, Blankets, sheets, canopy tents
  • Clothing (please label and separate by sizes)
  • Reusable shopping bags
  • Fans
  • Battery’s,  solar powered items, flashlights
  • Small grills and charcoal