Stronger Together: Hernando County Unites for Recovery, Preparedness, and Resilience
(Brooksville, FL) – BROOKSVILLE, FL — October 8, 2025 — One year after Hurricane Milton’s devastating floodwaters swept through Hernando County, the community continues to rise stronger — together. Residents are invited to join Stronger Together: Healing & Resilience After Hurricane Milton on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Ridge Manor Community Park (34030 Ridge Manor Blvd) for a day of healing, learning, and community connection.
When Hurricane Milton struck in 2024, record-breaking rainfall and widespread flooding inundated homes, neighborhoods, and roadways across Hernando County — from Ridge Manor and Masaryktown to Brooksville, Istachatta, and Nobleton. Families lost homes, vehicles, and treasured belongings. Critical infrastructure was damaged, and many residents faced months of displacement and uncertainty. Yet amid the devastation, the community came together — first responders, volunteers, churches, and neighbors offering help, hope, and heart.
Now, one year later, Stronger Together celebrates that enduring spirit while helping families continue their recovery and strengthen preparedness for future storms.
Proudly co-hosted by our Hernando County Long-Term Recovery Group, United Way of Hernando County, and Hernando County Emergency Management, this free community event brings together local organizations, agencies, and volunteers dedicated to helping residents recover, mitigate, prepare, and thrive.
Attendees can enjoy free meals from World Central Kitchen, access disaster case management and survivor support services, connect with financial assistance and wellness programs, and discover preparedness tools to help families stay ready for the future. The event also features raffles, a bounce house, and live music — making it a fun and meaningful experience for all ages.
“Recovery doesn’t end when the headlines fade — it continues in the homes, hearts, and efforts of our community,” says Erin Thomas, Hernando County Emergency Management Director. “We have faced incredible hardships in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, but our resilience shines through. This event is about coming together, sharing vital resources, and reminding every family that help is still here, because we are stronger together.”
Disaster case management services remain available for residents affected by Hurricane Milton. Trained case managers are ready to assist families with ongoing recovery needs, connect them to local resources, and help build long-term resilience.
Everyone is welcome — whether you were directly impacted by Hurricane Milton or simply want to be better prepared for the next storm season. Stronger Together is a chance to learn, connect, and grow stronger as a community.
Event Details:
Saturday, October 18, 2025
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Ridge Manor Community Park, 34030 Ridge Manor Blvd
For more information about the event or disaster recovery services, contact:
United Way of Hernando County: 352-688-2026
Hernando County Emergency Management: 352-754-4083
Hernando County Disaster Case Management Hotline: 352-340-2571
Erin Thomas ethomas@hernandocounty.us or 352-688-2026
Visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org/LTRG or follow us on Facebook @unitedwayhernando and @hernandocountyem for additional resources and updates.
