Hurricane Helene Resources and Support for Tampa Bay Families

Hurricane Helene Resources

My newsfeed, like yours maybe, is full of photos and videos of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Our community has been hit hard, and many people have lost their homes, their belongings, and their sense of security. For those navigating pregnancy or the early postpartum period, this adds a whole new layer of stress and overwhelm. To help, we’ve compiled Hurricane Helene Resources and Support for those in need.

If you are anything like me, it can start to feel overwhelming and impossible. Where do we start? How do we help everybody that needs it? Take a deep breath, and give yourself a moment. You might not be able to help every person that needs help –  but you can start where you are, and do what you can while still taking care of you and your own family. Don’t forget to put your oxygen mask on yourself first, so you can help your neighbors. Then, do the next right thing you can, even if it’s small. 

How about some good news?

When it all looks gloomy, it’s helpful to have a little brightness to lighten the dark. So we wanted to share this little story: 

One of our dedicated labor doulas was by a client’s side at the hospital during the height of the hurricane. She drove through the storm to be with her client during this very important time and everything turned out okay. A sweet, healthy baby was born safely, right in the middle of the storm. Go team! Moments like these remind us of the resilience and strength within our community. We are proud of the Tampa Bay healthcare heroes who continue to work tirelessly despite challenging circumstances.

Adapting to Our Environment 

Our team has been doing whatever it takes to be there for families. Whether it’s meeting clients at hotels where they’ve sought shelter, or rescheduling postpartum shifts and classes to accommodate those who have been displaced, we are committed to doing everything possible to ensure that no one feels alone. Additionally, if your home was damaged, or if you’ve been forced to relocate temporarily, please know that we are flexible and understanding of your needs. Ultimately, our priority is to make sure that you continue to receive the care and support you need on your parenting journey, regardless of the circumstances.

Weekly Parenting Support Group

Every week we host our Bumps and Babies New Parent Support Group. This free group meets on Thursday from 11am – 12pm at Buddha Belly Doulas: 13049 W. Linebaugh Ave, Unit 101, Tampa, Florida, 33626. You can see our Facebook event pages here.

All are invited to join us at this time, including those who are displaced due to the hurricane and need a safe space to take a breather. Come on in and use our wifi, charge your phones and batteries, rest in the air conditioning, relax in our comfy space, get a cup of tea or coffee and have a snack. All are welcome. 

Helping the Community Together

We are now witnessing a community come together and good people volunteering to lighten the load for others. This heartfelt human connection really makes a difference. Thank you to everyone assisting right now. You are appreciated. 

If you’re looking for ways to support those affected by Hurricane Helene, here are some options:

  • Tampa Bay Resiliency Fund: Visit pinellascf.org/TBRF to help support local families.
  • Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay: Help with clean-up and repairs. Call 813-878-9000 to lend or hand or visit their website to learn more.
  • Feeding Tampa Bay: Feeding Tampa Bay is distributing disaster support resources. You can donate food, money, or volunteer. Visit feedingtampabay.org for details.
  • Direct Help: If you see someone in need, consider helping them directly. Buying groceries, filling up a gas tank, or providing essentials like diapers can make a huge difference.

More resources to Bookmark:

Local and Government Resources:

Hurricane Helene Local Resources:

Government Resources:

We Will Get Through This Together

This storm has tested our community’s strength, but together, we will rebuild. We’re proud to serve Tampa Bay and honored to continue providing support during this challenging time. Let’s take care of each other — we’ll get through this together.

If you need help, or simply someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here for you, now and always. 🙏

 We’ve seen the worst of Hurricane Helene, but we will see brighter days ahead.

🩶 With love and hope, The Buddha Belly Doulas Team

Also check out: Keep Calm and Feed On

About Christie Collbran

Christie believes in helping women recognize their own inner wisdom, strength and power. Having served as President of the Tampa Bay Birth Network for six years and with ten years serving families as a birth doula, she has a reputation for leadership, dedication and compassion. A childbirth educator, certified lactation counselor as well as a certified doula, she makes a point of ensuring mothers and their partners understand all their birthing options and what to expect on their journey.> keep reading