Your trusted source for local St. Petersburg, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
BetterHelp is providing three months of free online therapy to individuals affected by Hurricane Helene. Victims can access this support by using a specific code on the BetterHelp website, making mental health resources more accessible in the wake of the disaster.
The Pinellas County Urban League is set to distribute free food on Friday, October 4, at its office located at 333 31st St. N. In addition to food, the nonprofit organization will offer recovery resources, including cleaning kits, legal and financial advice, and voting information.
The City of St. Petersburg has launched mobile permitting sites to streamline the permit application process for homeowners dealing with hurricane-related repairs. The initiative includes waived fees for urgent repairs and aims to facilitate easier access to permitting services. These sites will operate Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that the federal cost-share for disaster recovery in Florida will increase from 75% to 100% for a period of 90 days. This decision applies to all areas affected by Hurricane Helene, providing significant financial relief to the state in the wake of the disaster.
Tampa International Airport has achieved significant recognition by winning two awards in USA Today's 2024 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, specifically for Best Large Airport and Best Airport for Dining. This marks the first time the airport has secured the top rank in these categories, highlighting its commitment to excellence in customer service and amenities.
Eleven small businesses have united at the Daydream Shop & Maker Space to collectively address the challenges of rising rents. This collaborative effort allows each vendor to share the financial burden while maintaining their individual sales spaces. The initiative not only fosters community support but also enhances the local economy.
Water rescuers in St. Petersburg dedicated 96 straight hours to conducting 86 water rescues during Hurricane Helene's devastating storm surge. The intense efforts highlight the emotional and physical toll on emergency responders as they prioritized saving lives and property amidst dire conditions.
The Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores has reported no loss of life among its birds following Hurricane Helene's storm surge. Staff and volunteers returned to the sanctuary to find the facility intact despite the severe weather. The sanctuary's resilience showcases its effective preparedness and response to natural disasters.
Pinellas County officials have commenced storm debris collection following Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage to local businesses and residences, amounting to billions in losses. While some unincorporated areas began collection immediately, municipal residents may face delays in the cleanup process.
Dozens of longshoremen at Port Tampa Bay participated in a national strike, demanding a 75% pay raise and restrictions on automated machinery in their new contract. The strike was initiated after the U.S. Maritime Alliance rejected these demands, prompting workers to join the picket line. This labor action highlights ongoing tensions between labor unions and employers in the maritime industry.