As Florida residents evacuated their homes in anticipation of Hurricane Milton making landfall as a Category 3 on Wednesday, October 9, Macon-Bibb County prepared to welcome people with open arms.  

Our Emergency Management Agency (EMA) led a team of departments of community agencies to support the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) and the American Red Cross to open evacuation centers at Delores A. Brooks Recreation Center and the South Bibb County Recreation Center. We were able to provide a safe space for more than 30 people, including children.  

 “The profession of emergency management is all about helping people. Whether those people are your neighbors next-door or in the next state over, we help,” said EMA Director Spencer Hawkins. “We were proud to be a part of the statewide sheltering operations. Our team did not hesitate throughout the operation to ensure everyone seeking refuge in our community was safe and taken care of.” 

The American Red Cross is always looking for volunteers to help during times in need. If you would like to become a volunteer, or donate, click here.