Floridians Cautioned About Fundraising Scams Following Hurricane Ian

LAKE CITY (FLV)-  Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis warned Floridians to be wary of fake campaigns using platforms like GoFundMe to scam people following Hurricane Ian.

“Hurricane Ian is going to be an incredibly emotional tragic event and it will bring predators out that will prey on your generosity,” Patronis said.

He suggested people use other forms of donations including Samaritan’s Purse, the Salvation Army, and the American Red Cross.

“Be skeptical if anybody is putting anything out on GoFundMe because there’s no transparency there, where those dollars are going,” Patronis said.

He also wants people to be wary of suspicious individuals approaching your homes and requesting signatures of forms.

“Do not sign anything when anybody comes to your doorstep, providing any type of services,” Patronis said. “If it sounds too good to be true, it is.” 

Patronis said his office will set up insurance villages where insurance carriers will be set up in affected areas. They will take claims and issue emergency assistance based on policy terms.

“When anybody comes to your doorstep, providing any type of services on behalf of your of any services you might need, your first call needs to be to my office.”

Patronis said to call 1-877-693-5236 and your insurance agent and carrier to begin the claims process.

Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the activation of the Florida Disaster Fund to support Florida’s communities impacted by Hurricane Ian on Wednesday.

In partnership with public, private, and other non-governmental organizations, the Florida Disaster Fund supports response and recovery activities. 

“The Governor and I are thankful for the graciousness of those looking to assist Florida’s communities in their time of need,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis.

“I am pleased to announce that Volunteer Florida has activated the Florida Disaster Fund so that people can donate directly to those affected by Hurricane Ian. We greatly appreciate the kindness and generosity of organizations and individuals from across the country looking to support Floridians, thank you.”

DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties in Florida. He has also waived weight restrictions on commercial trucks. 

“We want to ensure that adequate resources are being brought into the state of Florida,” the governor said. “We will also authorize emergency refills of prescriptions for 30 days.”

Additionally, DeSantis warned Floridians against using their generators inside their homes.

“Make sure if you’re using things like generators, that you are using those properly. Those generators cannot be operated inside your structure or your home. The exhaust has to go outside. If it’s inside, then that could be something that is fatal,” he said.