EASTPOINT, Fla. (WTXL) - As those wildfires rage on, agencies and residents are lending a helping hand.
Shelters are in place to offer support and services to those affected.
Many authorities WTXL's spoken with agree that the best thing anyone can do right now for those affected by the Eastpoint wildfires is contribute monetary donations.
The Red Cross, the county emergency management and the county sheriff's office have begun preliminary damage assessments in the area to determine the exact extent of the damage.
But they aren't sure yet just how extensive or expensive the restoration efforts will be.
The Red Cross has had anywhere from 20 to 38 volunteers at the center that they have set up at the Eastpoint Church of God.
They began last night by bringing water food, snacks, toiletries and child care items, as well as cots and blankets for those who have been evacuated.
The most pressing need in the Eastpoint community after a roaring night of wildfire is lodging.
"Last night, we had about 51 in the shelter," said Sharon Tyler with the Red Cross. "I think today, our count is up to 195 that's a fluid situation because some people come register and stay and others what kind of come and go and they're all anxious to get back onto their property to see what the damages are."
Many people evacuated their homes with only the clothes on their backs because the fire was approaching so quickly.
Several locations across the Franklin County area will be accepting donations including the Apalachicola Police Station, the Eastpoint Fire Department, the Eastpoint Visitors Center and Ana's High Calling Church just to name a few.
Still, authorities say these families won't need stuff as much as they'll need a place to stay, so monetary donations are greatly appreciated.
There are only a few hotels in this waterfront city and the majority are already booked with summer tourists.
