The threat of Hurricane Wilma has prompted the United Way Volunteer & Community Resource Center (VCRC) to activate its plans to help agencies and local residents should disaster strike.

VCRC will work with county officials to meet the needs of the community, including the opening of a volunteer reception center to handle unaffiliated volunteers – those not already trained and serving organizations such as the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, public safety agencies, etc.

Before or after the storm, if you want to offer your volunteer services, please call VCRC at (772) 220-4472. Examples of volunteer service that were needed following Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne included: debris cleanup; water and ice distribution; Meals on Wheels assistance; switchboard help; data entry; case management; and assistance at the special needs shelter.

People who need help or information should call 2-1-1, a United Way-funded program that provides community information, referral and crisis intervention services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Martin County residents should call 2-1-1 or the county Emergency Operations Center (287-1652) when looking for information about shelters and other assistance they may need following the hurricane. The 2-1-1 service can be reached throughout the Treasure Coast by dialing 2-1-1 from a landline telephone. When using a cellular phone or pay phone, residents need to dial (866) 882-2991 (toll-free) or (561) 383-1111.

For more information about the United Way of Martin County Volunteer & Community Resource Center, please call (772) 220-4472 or visit www.martinvolunteers.org.