Polk County Commissioners, County and Emergency Management officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new Special Needs Shelter Warehouse on Tuesday, July 29.
By providing storage for supplies and equipment needed to support residents during emergencies, the facility will enhance disaster response efforts.
The 8,000-square-foot warehouse is located at 1896 Jim Keene Blvd. in Winter Haven, adjacent to the county’s Emergency Operations Center. It will serve as the central storage and distribution site for equipment and supplies used in special needs shelters throughout the Polk. Equipment such as cots and bedding, hygiene kits oxygen carts and tubing, cleaning supplies, and personal care items will be stored on-site and deployed when shelters are activated during hurricanes or other emergencies.
“This warehouse strengthens our ability to respond effectively in times of crisis and ensures we are better prepared to support our most vulnerable residents,” said Emergency Management Director Paul Womble. “It’s a major step forward in building a more resilient Polk County.”…