Who Let the Dogs Out?
Is there a stray dog or a bear wandering around your neighborhood? You’re in luck, 2-1-1 can get you connected to Marion County government services such as animal services and control. They can help relocate the bear to a safer place and match the dog up with a loving owner.
Did you know that right now there are over 60 dogs and 40 cats available (and even 2 horses) to adopt in Marion county? There are some eligibility requirements in order for you to adopt, so check those out before you head on down. No need to purchase a pet at a pet store because these loving and adorable pets would love to come live with you! If you lost your four legged friend, check out their Lost Pet Finder and check back frequently.
Of course, don’t forget to protect your pet by getting them vaccinated, licensed and chipped… all services that Marion County Animal Services can provide. Florida Teaching Zoo can also assist with pet vaccinations. Depending on your situation, 2-1-1 can even connect you with a resource to help you feed your dog.
Get Healthy with 2-1-1!
You don’t have to wait for January to make some resolutions. Did you know that 2-1-1 can let you know about live healthy resources such as exercise classes, nutrition education, health education, rec centers and activities, health screenings, vaccines, as well as programs to help you kick your vices be they alcohol, cigarettes or other substances? If you want to get healthy, simply dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to us at 898-211 to learn about the many resources near you.
Q & A: Goodbye Hurricanes, Hello Fire
The end of hurricane season is just around the corner on November 30th, but did you know that wildfire season in Florida is 12 months long? However, according to floridadisaster.org, “most wildfires occur during the January-June period when tropical moisture is cut off to the state and cold fronts bring dry, windy conditions”. While wildfire is good for the forests, Florida has the second highest number of wildfires in the nation, and sometimes they can negatively impact our communities.
There are some great tips for fire prevention that can be found by simply dialing 2-1-1 to get the information for your local department of emergency management or fire department. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is a great source of information about what programs are in place to prevent wildfires. Floridadisaster.org has information for children and adults about what we can do in our homes and communities to prevent and prepare for a possible fire. They also have a great page for kids to learn more about wildfires and other natural disasters that affect Florida.
Did you know that you can visit the Ocala National Forest website to see what level the fire risk is on a daily basis?
Winter Break Is Coming Your Way
Finding programs for your children when school is not in session can be stressful. Marion County agencies are easing the stress this holiday season by opening sign up early and offering partial scholarships to families in need. So call, text or chat with 2-1-1 online to find a winter break camp near you.
Ocala Parks and Rec: Lillian Bryant will be providing the only FREE option, that we are aware of, for Winter Break. They are having Open Rec where children can come and go as they please, but if you want your child to stay there all day, just let the staff know and they can accommodate that request. Call 2-1-1 for further details.
Church of God Deliverer: They are hosting a Vacation Bible Camp for $25 for 1st child, $5 for each additional child, 12/23/13-1/3/14, closed 12/25 and 1/1. Call 2-1-1 for further details.
Marion County Parks and Rec: Good times at Brick City, including hiking, kayaking, fishing and more for $75/child. 12/30/13-1/3/14 (closed 1/1) Scholarships are available based on need. Call 2-1-1 for further details.
Shores Assembly of God: Located over on Midway Road, they will be open both weeks of Winter Break for $75/week. Scholarships may become available. Call 2-1-1 for further details as we get closer to the date.
YMCA: The YMCA will be open for both weeks for winter break, and they are offering scholarships for 25-50% off. They will be closed 12/25 and 1/1. The cost is $110/week for members. Call 2-1-1 for further details.
The First Duty of Society is Justice.
“The first duty of society is justice.” – Alexander Hamilton
2-1-1 has many listings for local, state and national legal counseling services covering issues such as immigration, elder law, living wills, trust preparation, adult guardianship and more.
These agencies in Marion County take the commitment to justice to heart and provide free or sliding scale legal services to families with low incomes. A post about legal services wouldn’t be complete without a disclaimer. Always clarify with the agencies as services and fees may change over time.
211 UWMC 