INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — United Way of Indian River County has launched a new initiative called ANCHOR to bolster disaster preparedness and recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Milton and accompanying tornadoes.
The program, formally known as Action Network for Community Hope and Organized Recovery, aims to foster collaboration among government, nonprofit, faith-based and private-sector groups to address crises from start to finish.
“Disasters leave long shadows,” said Meredith Egan, the organization’s chief executive officer. “True recovery requires more than short-term aid — it takes planning, partnership, and compassion. ANCHOR bridges the gap between emergency response and full restoration, helping our neighbors regain stability and hope.”
Formed as Indian River County’s long-term recovery group, ANCHOR connects residents in need with resources for rebuilding homes, neighborhoods and lives. Since its start, the group has offered disaster case management to 26 clients and worked with 40 partner organizations.
Key activities include community outreach and education on preparedness, sharing information for better situational awareness, planning to build resilience, coordinating across sectors, ensuring equitable access for underserved populations, training partners and linking survivors to services.
The focus remains on safe housing, health and safety concerns, emotional support and filling gaps with financial aid, materials or volunteer help.
ANCHOR draws on established local players like the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, Volunteer Florida, Mental Health Collaborative, United Against Poverty and Indian River County Emergency Management.
United Way of Indian River County, a nonprofit, works year-round on health, education and financial stability issues. Those interested in partnering, volunteering or donating can call (772) 567-8900.
