Available resources for Kathleen tornado victims
The tornado that touched down in Kathleen on October 18 left a path of destruction that many are working clean up.
If you, your family or friends were affected, United Way of Central Florida has compiled a list of resources to help with the recovery process and keep victims safe.
Because the tornado was not classified as a catastrophic event, our community does not qualify for federal or state funding. Some companies may qualify for Small Business Association loans, but that is the only anticipated government support. The community will depend solely on private support.
Fraud Hotline
Phone: 1-866-966-7226 | Online
Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Search for licensed individuals and businesses that are regulated by the DBPR
Florida Better Business Bureau
Citizens Services
The Florida Attorney General’s Office of Citizen Services serves as the initial point-of-contact for consumer complaints, Lemon Law complaints, Medicaid Provider Fraud complaints and general inquiries.
Phone: 850-414-3990 | Online
Report Price Gouging
Phone: 1-866-9-NO-SCAM or 1-866-532-1440
A complaint can also be filed with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which acts as the State’s consumer complaint clearinghouse, at www.floridaconsumerhelp.com
Town Hall Meeting
Join a town hall discussion on tornado recovery efforts on Thursday, Nov. 7 at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, located at 3504 Mt Tabor Rd. in Lakeland, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A food pantry will be open to serve those in need.
Learn about what services are available to help those affected from United Way of Central Florida, Central Florida Regional Planning Council, American Red Cross of Central Florida, Polk County Government Florida, Church At The Mall, The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church, The Salvation Army of Lakeland and West Polk County and Endeavors.
UWCF will also provide assistance with insurance deductibles, hook up for electricity and other storm related expenses for those who meet case management requirements.
United Way’s 2-1-1 information and referral service is up to date on the services being offered to tornado victims. If you need assistance, text your zip code to 898-211 or dial 211.
More disaster relief resources can be found at uwcf.org/hurricane.
