Hurricane Helene has prompted recovery efforts in St. Petersburg, with the city launching initiatives to support affected residents and businesses. The “We Are St. Pete Fund,” a collaboration between the City of St. Petersburg and the Pinellas Community Foundation, aims to raise funds for disaster relief. This fund will provide direct assistance to residents, small businesses, and city employees impacted by the hurricane.
For those needing urgent repairs, streamlined emergency permit applications are available through email or phone contact with the city’s permitting office. Additionally, certain fees may be waived for hurricane-related repairs. Remote permitting sites have been established at three recreation centers until October 23 to facilitate quicker processing.
To further aid residents, fare-free bus services within city limits have been funded by the city from September 30 to October 13. However, this does not apply to Access, MOD, or other mobility services. Regular fares will resume on October 14.
Comfort stations are available at several locations where residents can cool off, charge devices, and pick up recovery kits. Free laundry services are also provided at designated sites for those without power.
Mobile restroom units have been set up across various parks in the city for convenience. The city is conducting multiple sweeps to collect storm debris starting October 7 but advises against placing debris in trash bags.
Regular trash and recycling services continue as usual. Volunteers looking to assist can sign up through the city’s website dedicated to Hurricane Helene aid efforts.
For more information on these initiatives and other resources related to Hurricane Helene recovery in St. Petersburg, visit stpete.org/recovery.
