Overview

The Martin County Special Needs Registry and Evacuation Transportation Assistance Program helps residents with special medical, mobility, or transportation needs during emergencies such as hurricanes or other disasters.

The program offers transportation to and from emergency shelters. Depending on your needs, you may be placed in a general shelter or a special needs shelter with limited medical support, such as oxygen. 

This service is also available to people who have a disability or do not have access to a vehicle.

If an evacuation order is issued, registered individuals will be contacted with a pickup time and location. Transportation will be provided from your home to the appropriate shelter.

Important: You must pre-register and renew your registration every year.

Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Live in Martin County
  • Reside in an evacuation zone, recommended evacuation area, or unsafe housing (e.g., mobile/manufactured home)
  • Require help with mobility, oxygen, routine medications, or health monitoring during emergencies
  • Need transportation due to disability, or lack of a vehicle

Special needs shelters are not able to provide advanced medical care. Residents requiring greater levels of assistance such as a hospital bed, hemodialysis, life support equipment, IV chemotherapy, full ventilator, etc. must make alternative plans with the assistance of a physician or health care professional.

How to Register

All applications are reviewed by a committee to confirm eligibility. Those with medical needs beyond shelter capabilities must have a personal care plan in place for their needs during an emergency. If you have no medical needs but just require transportation, you will be taken to a general population shelter.

Special Needs Clients with Pets

Pets are NOT allowed in special needs shelters due to health concerns. Please arrange alternative sheltering for your pets in advance. Martin County partners with the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) which will take in and care for domestic pets. Contact HSTC to register your pet or get more information.

Contact

If you have additional questions about the Special Needs Registry and Evacuation Transportation Assistance Program, select the "Contact Us" button, or call Martin County Emergency Management at (772) 287-1652.

Contact Us