FPL and Little Havana Activities & Nutrition Centers Help Miami Seniors Prepare for Hurricane Season
With the Atlantic hurricane season now underway, preparedness remains one of the most effective ways to protect lives and reduce the impact of severe weather. In South Florida, where hurricanes and tropical storms are an annual reality, community initiatives that help residents prepare before disaster strikes play a critical role in strengthening resilience.
One such effort recently brought together Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and Little Havana Activities & Nutrition Centers of Dade County, Inc. to support one of the region’s most vulnerable populations—senior citizens.As part of a statewide preparedness initiative, the organizations partnered with the Florida Council on Aging to distribute hurricane preparedness meal kits to older adults throughout Miami-Dade County.
The program is designed to ensure that seniors have access to essential supplies in the critical days immediately following a storm, when travel may be difficult and meal delivery services could be temporarily disrupted.
Each emergency preparedness kit includes a three-day supply of shelf-stable, nutritious food, bottled water, snacks, and a hurricane preparedness guide filled with practical safety tips and emergency resources. These supplies can make a significant difference for seniors who may be unable to leave their homes or access assistance in the aftermath of severe weather.
Beyond providing food and water, initiatives like this highlight the importance of planning ahead. Emergency management experts consistently emphasize that families should prepare long before a storm is forecast by assembling emergency kits, securing medications, charging electronic devices, reviewing evacuation plans, and staying informed through trusted sources.
“Giving back to our senior citizens in our community is really key for us, and helping ensure they’re prepared for storm season,” said Christopher Ferreira, FPL External Affairs Manager.
For Evelio Rodriguez, one of the meal kit recipients, the assistance represents more than emergency supplies—it demonstrates genuine community support. “The situation is not easy, so everything is undoubtedly a tremendous help and a clear demonstration that FPL truly cares about people like us,” he shared.
Since 2016, FPL has partnered with nonprofit organizations across Florida to distribute thousands of hurricane preparedness kits to seniors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to protecting the communities it serves. These outreach efforts complement FPL’s ongoing investments in strengthening Florida’s electric grid while encouraging residents to take personal responsibility for storm preparedness.
Emergency officials agree that preparedness saves lives. Community events like these not only provide critical supplies but also raise awareness about the importance of having a family emergency plan, knowing evacuation routes, maintaining emergency contacts, and preparing enough food, water, and medications to remain self-sufficient for several days after a storm.
As hurricane season continues, partnerships between utility companies, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and community leaders demonstrate how collaboration can make neighborhoods stronger and more resilient. By ensuring that seniors and other vulnerable residents receive the resources they need before a storm arrives, these initiatives help create safer communities throughout South Florida.
For hurricane preparedness tips, emergency checklists, and additional storm resources, residents are encouraged to visit FPL.com/Storm and begin preparing today.
