A special needs shelter is a temporary emergency facility capable of providing care to residents whose medical condition exceeds the capabilities of the Red Cross Shelter but is not severe enough to require hospitalization.
A special needs registry for those residents who may need assistance with evacuation and sheltering in times of disaster. Learn more about the special needs shelter program in the video:
In order to accommodate residents who need evacuation assistance to a special needs shelter, it is most important that they pre-register in advance for placement into a shelter. This will help in determining what level of sheltering is necessary to provide residents with the appropriate level of care during an evacuation.
People assigned to a special needs shelter will need to bring with them all medications, medical equipment and supplies, and articles of comfort they routinely use.
Oxygen tanks will be supplied for all patients in a Special Needs Shelter that require the use of oxygen. If continuous oxygen is required, please be sure to bring a portable tank with enough oxygen to get you home from the shelter after the storm.
What supplies should I take to the shelter?
- Medications and Lists of Medications
- Special Dietary Needs (Special diets CANNOT be accommodated in a shelter)
- Medical Supplies, Oxygen Masks, Pulse Ox, Heart Monitor, etc.
- Wound Care Supplies
- Blankets/ Pillows, Air mattress
- Towel/ Washcloth
- Change of clothing
- Wheelchair/ Walker
- Personal Hygiene Items (soap, toothbrush, adult diapers, etc.)
What items are banned from the shelter?
- Illegal or illicit drugs
- Weapons
- Alcohol