Alachua County opens emergency shelters 

Alachua County Senior Recreation Center
Alachua County Senior Recreation Center.
Photo courtesy of Alachua County

Alachua County has opened four emergency shelters in anticipation of the approaching Hurricane Ian.  

The county opened a special needs shelter at the Alachua County Senior Center, a general population shelter (no pets) at Meadowbrook Elementary and two pet-friendly shelters at Eastside High School and Easton Newberry Archery Center.

Here are the addresses for the four shelters:

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General Population (pet-friendly) shelters:

  • Easton Newberry Archery Center (24880 N.W. 16th Ave, Newberry)
  • Eastside High School (1201 S.E. 43rd Street, Gainesville)

General population (not pet-friendly) shelter:

  • Meadowbrook Elementary School (11525 N.W. 39th Ave, Gainesville)

Special needs (service animals only) shelter:

  • Alachua County Senior Center (5701 N.W. 34th Blvd., Gainesville)

The special needs shelters provide one cot per patient, according to the county. Caregivers will not receive a bed, so they need to bring bedding. 

The pet-friendly shelters are intended for cats, dogs, and their people. Citizens should bring essentials, including collars, leashes, crates, towels, blankets, and pet food/medication.  

People with additional storm-related pet needs, such as a large number of animals needing shelter, pot-bellied pigs, horses, or exotic animals, should contact Animal Resources and Care at 352-264-6870 or 311.

Depending on the storm’s severity, local schools may open shelters in designated buildings and facilities.  

While packing for a shelter stay, the county recommends bringing special dietary foods and prescription medication. It is encouraged to pack spare clothing, personal care items, spare eyeglasses/contacts and identification.  

Shelters are a last resort option, specifically for those living in homes that can be dangerous in high winds, flood-prone areas, and people who have nowhere else to go.   

Alachua County Animal Resources and Care and community support services staff will be on-site to encourage public and animal safety.  

The county activated the 311 Emergency Information Line for questions. Residents can also register for emergency alerts by texting ALACHUA to 888-777. 

For updates on shelter openings, visit Alachua County Ready, and for the latest weather updates, visit the National Weather Service in Jacksonville

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