Fort Myers, FL, Sept. 30, 2022 –The U.S. Coast Guard has organized a ferry operation now underway to help Sanibel residents from the island to the mainland. The boat departs from Sanibel Boat Ramp, near the Causeway, approximately every 90 minutes to two hours.
The boat can carry 30-40 passengers each trip to Port Comfort, also known as Port Sanibel Marina.
A bus will transport passengers to Lee County shelters.
The ferry operation will continue as long as the need remains and the boat is available. The operation began this afternoon and will cease at 7 p.m. today.
Donations accepted
The United Way and the Collaboratory have created an easy-to-use portal for donations. Monetary donations are more helpful at this time. Visit www.leegov.com/storm and click on the red “Donate” button to contribute to the SWFL Emergency Relief Fund. 100% of funds support nonprofits helping people affected by Hurricane Ian.
County operations
Lee County has announced that county offices will remained closed Monday, Oct. 3, and remain closed pending further notice. Lee County employees remain engaged in recovery efforts.
Getting help for family and friends
Distant friends and family can use the Emergency Service Request Form from the Florida Division of Emergency Management to request help for loved ones they have lost contact with following Hurricane Ian. Local residents can also use the form to ask for help.
Go to https://missing.fl.gov/es for the form.
Free food and water
Lee County – along with state and federal partners – will begin opening Points of Distribution (PODs) for residents impacted by Hurricane Ian who need food and water. The announcement of their locations and opening times will be forthcoming.
Check www.leegov.com for Hurricane Ian updates. Follow @Lee County Government on Facebook,
www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. ~ John 15:13
Susan M. Lindenmuth, MS, MPIO, CDM
Director of Public Affairs
Estero Fire Rescue
21500 Three Oaks Parkway
Estero, FL 33928
Ph: (239) 390-8000
Fax: (239) 390-8020
Cell: (239) 691-4123
lindenmuth