When a hurricane hits Southwest Florida, shelters quickly fill up and supplies run low. If you want to help, here are the items that shelters need most.
Water and Hydration
Water is always the number one need. Shelters go through thousands of bottles during a hurricane event.
- Bottled water (cases)
- Electrolyte drinks
- Water purification tablets
Food
Non-perishable items that are easy to distribute:
- Canned goods (with pull-tab lids)
- Peanut butter and crackers
- Granola bars and energy bars
- Shelf-stable milk
- Baby formula and baby food
- Snacks for children
Hygiene and Personal Care
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Soap and shampoo
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Diapers and wipes
- Feminine hygiene products
- Deodorant
Bedding and Comfort
- Blankets and sheets
- Pillows
- Air mattresses
- Sleeping bags
- Towels
Medical Supplies
- First aid kits
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Band-aids and gauze
- Prescription medication (donated through proper channels)
- Hand sanitizer
Clothing
- Socks and underwear (new)
- T-shirts
- Shorts and pants
- Rain ponchos
- Shoes and sandals
How to Donate
Visit Hurricane Heroes to see exactly what each shelter needs right now. Our platform shows real-time needs updated by shelter administrators. You can also log your donations on our Donate page to help us track community contributions.
Remember: check the specific needs of your local shelter before donating. Shelters may already have plenty of some items and desperately need others.