TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Punta Gorda to give updates on recovery efforts in areas that have been impacted by Hurricane Ian. Governor DeSantis announced two major actions the state is taking to support our southwest Florida fisheries, including requesting a federal disaster declaration for offshore, inshore, and near shore fisheries, and that the Department of Economic Opportunity will be providing disaster relief employment to captains through temporary jobs. To watch the Governor’s full remarks, click here.

Yesterday, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced that the Florida Disaster Fund has raised over $45 million since activation. To read more, click here. To contribute, please visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org or text DISASTER to 20222.

Additionally, the First Lady has worked with the State Disaster Recovery Mental Health Coordinator, Sara Newhouse, to compile a webpage of resources to help first responders navigate resources for mental health needs post hurricane. To visit the site, click here. Mental health resources for individuals and communities are available at MyFLFamilies.com/HurricaneIan. Floridians’ health and well-being are a top priority, and the Department of Children and Families is reminding individuals that they are not alone. All Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian can find someone to talk to today through the Disaster Distress Helpline by calling 800-985-5990.

Safe and found persons can be reported safe at http://safe.fl.gov.

Additional programs that have been put into place to aid communities include the activation of the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, the initiation of the Army Corps of Engineers’ Operation Blue Roof, and FDOT’s diligent work to construct temporary bridges into areas that are cut off from motorists. First Lady Casey DeSantis, Volunteer Florida and Tervis have created a design with Florida imagery for a new tumbler product. With every sale of this tumbler, all proceeds will go to the Florida Disaster Fund. Products are available for purchase on the Tervis website HERE and will soon be available in stores for purchase.

Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)

Bridges (state roads & interstates)

Bridges Closed as of 11 a.m. on 10/15/22

Roadways (state roads & interstates)

Roads Closed as of 11 a.m. on 10/15/22

Florida Department of Education (DOE)

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)