In a recent development, Okaloosa County along with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) announced the establishment of two Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARC) aimed at providing aid to residents, families, businesses, and non-profits impacted by Hurricane Isaias. This was detailed in a statement from the county's Emergency Operations Center.
These assistance centers are set to begin operations on Wednesday, October 14, with limited hours from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM Central Time. Starting Thursday, October 15, and continuing through October 24, both facilities will be open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
The first center is located at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, Hall A, at 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
The second center can be found at the Crestview Community Center, 1446 Commerce Dr, Crestview, FL 32539.
Resources and Services Offered at MARC
These centers welcome individuals, families, businesses, and non-profits that have sustained damage due to the hurricane. They will converge resources from state public agencies and organizations to provide guidance on financial assistance, volunteering opportunities, potential roof tarps, and debris cleanup, subject to availability.
Participating entities include Legal Services of North Florida, 211 Northwest Florida, and various Florida state departments. The announcement did not specify documentation requirements, immigration eligibility, or the amounts of financial aid available.
Distinction from Insurance Assistance Hub
These MARC facilities are separate from the insurance assistance hub operating at the Morgan Sports Complex in Destin. This hub, which has been open since October 11, is dedicated solely to processing insurance claims and operates on different hours and a separate location.
Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin as a category two hurricane on October 9, prompting mandatory evacuations in the coastal zones A and B of the county.
Community Recovery Efforts
The hurricane's impact resulted in widespread power outages, the closure of the county's three airports, and the suspension of classes, which are set to resume this Wednesday.
For those needing guidance on basic needs such as food, water, medicine, or shelter, they can reach out to 211 or 855-420-8689 for Northwest Florida, which is available 24/7. SNAP beneficiaries who lost food have until October 19 to request replacements via MyACCESS.
The county suggests checking for possible schedule or service changes directly on the Emergency Operations Center's website before visiting either of the centers.
FAQs on Okaloosa County's Disaster Response
What is the purpose of the Multi-Agency Resource Centers?
The MARC centers are designed to provide assistance and resources to those affected by Hurricane Isaias, including guidance on financial aid, volunteering, and debris cleanup.
How can residents get help with basic needs?
Residents can call 211 or 855-420-8689 for assistance with food, water, medicine, or shelter. These lines are available 24 hours a day.
When will classes resume in Okaloosa County?
Classes are scheduled to resume on Wednesday following the disruptions caused by Hurricane Isaias.