St. Pete Standard

The City of St. Petersburg is taking steps to support its community in the wake of two recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton. These storms, which struck within a two-week period, have prompted a coordinated effort to aid recovery and rebuild the city.

In collaboration with the Pinellas Community Foundation, St. Petersburg has introduced the We Are St. Pete Fund. This initiative aims to raise funds for disaster relief specifically targeting residents, small businesses, and city employees affected by the hurricanes. According to city officials, "100% of the donations received will directly support those impacted."

To contribute to this fund, individuals can text HOPE to 38316 or visit pinellascf.org/WeAreStPete.

For residents undertaking rebuilding efforts after storm damage, several recommendations have been provided: securing necessary permits before commencing any repair work, building stronger structures to withstand future storms, hiring licensed contractors, and elevating electrical outlets and HVAC systems.

In an effort to facilitate recovery processes, the city is temporarily waiving application and inspection fees for permits related to demolition and repair work necessitated by Hurricanes Helene or Milton. Residents are encouraged to begin their permit applications at stpete.org/Permitting.

Recognizing the importance of mental health post-disaster, several resources have been highlighted for those in need:

- Call 211 for expert assistance

- Contact 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline via call or text

- Reach out to Care About Me at 1-888-431-1998 or careaboutme.org

- Access disaster crisis counseling through Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990

The city's recovery efforts also extend to debris removal through its Hometown Recovery Haulers Program. Local haulers have been instrumental in clearing household and vegetative debris left by the hurricanes. Residents are advised on proper disposal methods: separating debris types without bagging them and placing items on roadway curbs instead of alleys.

For vegetative debris disposal, St. Petersburg offers several Brush Sites open daily from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., located at:

- 1000 62nd Ave. NE.

- 7750 26th Ave. N.

- 2500 26th Ave. S.

- 4015 Dr. Martin Luther King St. S.

- 2453 20th Ave. N.

Site hours may vary; further information is available at stpete.org/BrushSites.

The city expresses gratitude for residents' patience as cleanup efforts continue across St. Pete.