Allen mobilizes supply chain to support Hurricane Milton

As Florida begins to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Milton, the American Logistics Assistance Network (ALAN) has launched relief efforts, urging logistics professionals to provide expertise, equipment and space to support relief efforts.

Also read: Allen mobilizes for Hurricane Milton as supply chain prepares for another major storm

“The ability to store, transport, organize and deliver relief supplies to the scene of a disaster could be a game-changer,” said Kathy Fulton, executive director of ALAN.

Fulton expressed his deep sympathy for those affected by the storm, which caused widespread damage and tornadoes. “We mourn the loss of our family, pets and home. Ellen has worked with nonprofit partners to provide assistance where it is needed most,” she said.

Earlier this week, Allen received the first request for logistical assistance related to Hurricane Milton. More requests are expected in the coming days and weeks, similar to the response following Hurricane Helene two weeks ago.

“In the first 48 to 72 hours after a hurricane, search and rescue operations are the primary focus,” Fulton explained. “Humanitarian organizations only started requesting logistical support after damage assessments were conducted, and Allen saw a spike in requests at this time.”

Fulton encouraged logistics organizations eager to help not to be discouraged by early delays. “The need for logistical support can arise days, months or even longer after a disaster. Every contribution is critical to the effective delivery of aid.”

Often in the coming weeks and months. Allen will post all of its unmet requests here and currently has some open needs listed here for Hurricane Helen and other ongoing relief efforts.

“While logistics professionals may not be first responders, their role in delivering relief supplies is life-saving,” Fulton emphasized. “We are grateful to be part of a community that steps up during the most challenging of times. “

Top 10 Essentials for Post-Hurricane Allen Relief

1. Do not self-deploy to any active disaster site. One of the best ways to be part of the solution is to ensure you don’t become part of the problem, and right now that means keeping work roads open so initial rescue and relief activities can be carried out.

2. Expect to need your support sooner or later (or both). Disaster recovery is a lengthy process, often measured in months or years. So even if you don’t have the opportunity to assist with Hurricane Milton relief efforts now, there’s a good chance Allen and many other humanitarian organizations will need your help later.

3. If any of your facilities are located where Hurricane Milton or its remnants hit, be sure to check with your employees to make sure they are safe and sound. If they have been affected, make helping them and their families a priority for your organization. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that the people we work with (and for us) have our backs.

6. Even if your area has not been affected by previous storms, take the remainder of this year’s hurricane season seriously. Every time a region successfully shelters from a severe storm, the risk increases that local residents will ignore the severity of future storm warnings. Please don’t believe this attitude. Always be aware of warnings in your area and never assume they are exaggerated. Your life and safety may depend on them.

7. Don’t hold product collection events. While the intentions behind these collection events are good, they often create more challenges than they solve, including adding more product and transportation to a supply chain that is already under significant pressure.

10. Consider supporting disaster relief efforts through financial contributions. When push comes to shove, nothing helps humanitarian organizations more than a cash gift. Even a few spare dollars can make a positive difference, and every penny really does help.