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Supporting Our School Community After the Storm

Guidance & Support
A Message of Support

Dear DAOF Families,

The devastating impact of Hurricane Helene can be felt throughout many areas of Florida. Our thoughts are with all families who have suffered loss during this time. While DAOF was closed for two days last week, we are fully open and operational. However, we do have a few staff members also impacted by the storm.  We thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please know that our staff is here to help. If you need additional support, please contact Ms. Medlock, Student Resource Coordinator at [email protected].  Below are some resources she has compiled to assist any family in need.

  • www.findhelp.org displays local agencies by zip code who can assist with all sorts of food, financial and transportation aides.
  • Counties under boil water advisory: https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/drinking-water/boil-water-notices/index.html
  • Need help after a disaster? Visit: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
  • FEMA Assistance: You can apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and help is available in most languages
    • (**Alachua, Baker, Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor, Wakulla counties**)
  • FEMA’s Hurricane Helene for Florida residents’ application deadline is November 27, 2024.
  • Current SNAP recipients who lost food due to Hurricane Helene can apply for food replacement.
    • To learn more, visit: myflfamilies.com/Helene
      • Households are required to provide verification of having a power outage of 4 or more hours to their MYACCESS Account, except for households located in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Nassau, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, and Wakulla. Due by October 6th, 2024
  • For residents who DO NOT currently receive SNAP benefits, Activate Hope helps connect Floridians with outside resources to provide food, household goods, home repairs, and more. Please visit: https://hopeflorida.com/get-help/hurricanerecovery.html“

As we navigate these challenging times, please know that our collective communities stand in support of our Floridia neighbors. Please do not hesitate to reach out to you child’s teacher, administrator, school counselor, or student resource coordinator with any questions or concerns. We look forward to seeing your child back in the classroom soon and continuing to support them on their learning journey.

Sincerely,

Laura Downes, Director of Schools