By William “David” Snyder, CEO, Evergreen Private Care
As we move into the second half of hurricane season, now is an excellent time to pause and review your emergency preparedness plans. While this year’s forecasts suggest a somewhat less active Atlantic hurricane season than originally anticipated, it only takes one storm to significantly impact our communities.
For those of us living along Florida’s Treasure Coast and Central Florida, hurricane preparedness isn’t something we think about only when a storm is approaching, it’s something we prepare for throughout the season.
At Evergreen Private Care, emergency preparedness is more than a state requirement or regulatory obligation. It’s a commitment to the safety, well-being, and peace of mind of our clients, families, and caregivers. Our Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan is designed not simply to meet Florida’s standards, but to ensure we’re ready to support you before, during, and after a storm.
Our leadership, clinical, and scheduling teams continually monitor tropical weather, review emergency plans, and coordinate with caregivers so we can respond quickly should conditions change.
Preparation Starts with a Conversation
One of the most important things you can do before a named storm develops is talk with your Evergreen Clinical Care Coordinator.
We encourage every client and family to discuss:
- Your evacuation or shelter-in-place plans.
- Will you need to evacuate to a special needs shelter in your community?
- Emergency contacts and communication preferences.
- Backup power or medical equipment needs.
- Medication and supply planning.
- Any special concerns unique to your situation.
These conversations also give us the opportunity to review Evergreen’s emergency response plan so you know what to expect from us should a storm threaten our area. When we understand your wishes in advance, we’re better prepared to support you when it matters most.
Now Is the Time to Prepare
If you haven’t reviewed your hurricane plans recently, now is the perfect opportunity.
We recommend:
- Review your emergency contacts and evacuation plans.
- Keep at least seven days of medications and medical supplies on hand.
- Stock food, water, batteries, flashlights, and other necessities.
- Charge phones, medical devices, and backup batteries before severe weather arrives.
- Review your emergency plan with your family and your Evergreen Clinical Care Coordinator; in Stuart that may be Nurse Gabby, Melisssa, Alicia or Marie at 772-291-2990, or in Ocala that may be Kierea or Jennifer at 352-722-2273
Preparation is always easier before a storm appears on the forecast.
We’re Ready When You Need Us
Should tropical weather threaten our service areas, per our plan, Evergreen will begin proactively contacting clients and families to review care plans, confirm schedules, and coordinate any necessary adjustments.
Our commitment is simple: to be there for you whenever it is safe to do so. While severe weather can create challenges beyond anyone’s control, our goal is to provide clear communication, thoughtful planning, and compassionate support throughout the event.
Thank you for trusting Evergreen Private Care with the privilege of caring for you and your loved ones. We remain committed to delivering exceptional care, and peace of mind, before, during, and after the storm.
If you have questions about your emergency preparedness plan or would like to discuss your wishes before a storm develops, please contact your Evergreen Clinical Care Coordinator or your local Evergreen office. Together, we can ensure you’re prepared for whatever this hurricane season may bring.
William “David” Snyder
Chief Executive Officer
Evergreen Private Care