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?

Residents of Martin County may qualify for the Special Needs Registry and Evacuation Assistance Program if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Live in an evacuation zone, recommended evacuation area, or unsafe residence (such as a mobile or manufactured home) and require transportation to and from a designated emergency shelter
  • Require assistance with mobility, oxygen, medication administration, or health monitoring, within the limits of available services

Please note: Special needs shelters are not able to provide advanced medical care. Residents who require higher levels of medical assistance such as hospital beds, hemodialysis, life-support equipment, IV chemotherapy, or full ventilator support must make alternative plans with the assistance of a physician or healthcare professional.

How to Register

You can register for the Special Needs Registry using one of the following methods:

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 and safety concerns. Residents must make alternative sheltering arrangements for their pets in advance.

Martin County partners with the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) which will take in and care for domestic pets. To register your pet or for additional information, visit hstc1.org or call (772) 223-8822.

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