United Way Southwest Louisiana Enhances Hurricane Preparedness Communication & Assistance for 2025 Season

Lake Charles, LA — As we approach the 2025 hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, United Way Southwest Louisiana is proud to announce an improved Initiative to help community members in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis Parish stay informed about natural disasters through timely, region-specific information.

Residents can register online at UNITEDWAYSWLA.ORG/STORM or text “STORMSWLA” to 40403 to receive real-time updates from trusted sources before, during, and after a hurricane. This service aims to ensure that everyone has access to essential information that can help them prepare and respond effectively to severe weather events.

United Way Southwest Louisiana collaborates with various federal, state, and local partners to gather the most reliable information. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to provide the latest storm-related resources. At the same time, partnerships with local volunteer groups, city governments, and law enforcement agencies enhance our ability to serve the community during emergencies.

The past few years have provided invaluable lessons for our team as we navigated the challenges presented by COVID-19 and the impacts of hurricanes Laura and Delta. These experiences have strengthened our resolve and improved our response strategies, equipping us with the knowledge to assist our community during future disasters better. We understand the need for timely, accurate information and comprehensive support, and we are committed to applying these lessons learned in our ongoing efforts.

"Our 211 system operates 24/7 and is always available for critical resources. This new system allows us to further assist our community by delivering important planning tips, evacuation procedures, and relevant updates directly to their devices," stated Denise Durel, President and CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. "We know our community depends on us for reliable information, and this Initiative is another way to support our friends and neighbors through challenging times."

Now is the time to register as a Disaster Response Specialist on our website so that you can be ready to help if a storm hits. By signing up now, you can impact our community when it matters most.

United Way Southwest Louisiana also understands the importance of safeguarding vital documents during emergencies. We invite anyone needing a waterproof document storage bag to visit our office at 815 Ryan Street in Lake Charles, open Monday to Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM, to pick one up.

In addition to emergency notifications, plans are in place to share essential information regarding food and shelter options as conditions evolve during a hurricane. Registrants will also have the opportunity to customize their notifications to focus on the information that matters most to them.

SWLA VOAD (Southwest Louisiana Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) is a coalition of nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community groups dedicated to improving the region's disaster response and recovery efforts. The organization fosters collaboration among its members to ensure a more efficient and practical approach to assisting those impacted by emergencies. Any nonprofit, government, or other agency that responds to disasters and is interested in joining SWLA VOAD is encouraged to visit the website for more information on membership and involvement opportunities at swlavoad.org.

For additional ways to stay informed this hurricane season, follow United Way Southwest Louisiana on social media or sign up for our email newsletter at unitedwayswla.org/newsletter.

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About United Way Southwest Louisiana
From strengthening local resilience to advancing healthy communities, youth opportunity and financial security, United Way Southwest Louisiana is mobilizing communities to take action so all can thrive. 
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