The latest on Hurricane Milton and how you can help

Since 2020, CARE has built a network of local humanitarian partners through the CARE Partner Network, designed to support communities often overlooked by larger relief efforts. CARE’s response to Hurricane Milton includes emergency cash assistance to help families meet urgent needs like food, water, emergency housing, and medication. Cash assistance is particularly critical for women-led households and BIPOC families—groups that are often the hardest hit but least supported in disaster recovery.

During Hurricane Ian in 2022, this network provided $238,500 in emergency cash to 258 families, with 92% of those households led by women and 96% identifying as BIPOC.Since 2021 CARE has provided 1.8 million dollars in cash assistance, supporting 9.6k individuals and 61% of recipients are women.

“Many of the most vulnerable families lack the resources to recover from such a crisis,” said Amir Farokhi, CARE’s Executive Director of U.S. Programs. “Cash ensures that families can meet their unique needs, especially in smaller communities that receive less state and federal support.”

With CARE’s expertise in using cash interventions effectively during emergencies, the organization is committed to reaching those overlooked by traditional aid channels.

Hurricane Milton’s rapid intensification made it the third-fastest storm to strengthen in the Atlantic and one of the top ten strongest hurricanes on record in the Gulf of Mexico. Both Tampa and Orlando issued evacuation orders as the storm approached, leaving thousands seeking safety in shelters.

Many families are unable to relocate safely due to financial barriers, while others live in smaller communities that won’t receive the same level of local and state support as larger cities.

Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and families with young children, require last-mile delivery of goods and services. As it was in the aftermath of Helene, these families don’t have the reserves to rebound from catastrophe.

Cash assistance empowers them to access essential foods, medicines, and hygiene supplies—ensuring no one is left behind.

“We are deeply concerned for those in Milton’s path, including many still recovering from Hurricane Helene,” said Amir Farokhi, CARE’s Executive Director of U.S. Programs. “We are working closely with our Florida partners to ensure timely support for those in need.”

Here’s how you can help: