HAHarvey Walden
3 days agoAdopt-A-Shelter Program
When a disaster strikes, public shelters may need to open quickly to provide safety and stability for Monroe County residents. The Monroe County Emergency Management Adopt-a-Shelter Program connects local organizations with shelter support needs during emergencies, helping residents when it matters most.
By adopting a shelter, your organization becomes a trusted community partner that can step in during hurricanes, wildfires, cold-weather emergencies, and other events when shelters are activated. Volunteers help provide comfort, support, and a welcoming presence for people facing difficult circumstances.
Why Volunteers are Needed
During emergencies, shelters may open for older adults, individuals with disabilities, families without stable housing, and others who need a safe place to go. Shelter managers oversee operations, but extra help is often needed for comfort items, non-clinical tasks, and general support.
Volunteer groups can play a meaningful role by easing the burden on professional responders while bringing compassion and reassurance to residents in crisis.
What it means to "Adopt" a Shelter
Organizations that adopt a shelter may be asked to:
Attend a one-time orientation with Monroe County Emergency Management staff
Maintain a volunteer contact list for possible shelter activations
Be on call to assist with shelter setup, check-in support, and comfort station needs
Help distribute supplies
Assist with light cleanup during shelter operations
Not every shelter opens during every emergency. If your adopted shelter is activated, your organization will be notified and asked to confirm availability. Monroe County will provide guidance, safety instructions, and support throughout your involvement.
Benefits of Participating
Organizations that participate in the Adopt-a-Shelter Program can:
Help serve displaced or vulnerable residents with dignity and care
Be part of a trusted, coordinated local response
Build teamwork, purpose, and pride among volunteers
Gain firsthand emergency preparedness knowledge
Receive official recognition from Monroe County
Inspire others through community leadership
Groups that adopt shelters will also receive early re-entry placards, a certificate of participation, and recognition on the county’s official social media channels and website.
Who Can Participate
Monroe County Emergency Management encourages participation from:
Churches and faith-based organizations
Civic and service clubs
High school groups with volunteers. 18+
College student groups
Community nonprofits
Businesses and workplace teams
No group is too small. Whether your organization can provide a few helping hands or a full team, every contribution helps improve the sheltering experience for Monroe County residents.
