- (888) 265-4890
- Info@GOSCIN.org
Empowering individuals with spinal cord injuries to prepare, respond, and recover when disaster strikes.
When disaster hits, preparation saves lives especially for those living with spinal cord injuries or mobility limitations.
The Greater Orlando Spinal Cord Injury Network (GOSCIN), in partnership with the United Spinal Association and the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, is committed to ensuring every member of our community is ready, connected, and supported before, during, and after emergencies across Central Florida.
Disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and power outages can disrupt access to medications, equipment, personal care, and mobility resources. By planning ahead and staying informed, you can protect your health, safety, and independence, no matter the circumstance.
It’s important to have a plan.
Every preparedness plan should be personal. Consider your daily routines and essential requirements, including:
Medication and medical supply needs
Accessibility of your home and evacuation routes
Power requirements for essential medical or mobility equipment
Personal care attendants or caregiver support
Transportation and backup plans
Needs of service or companion animals
Each Florida county maintains a Special Needs Registry and offers Special Needs Shelters to assist individuals with disabilities during emergencies.
Local Contacts:
Office of Emergency Management
Orange County:
Dial 3-1-1
407-836-3111
Osceola County: 407-742-9000
Seminole County: 407-665-0311
Learn more about the Orlando Office of Emergency Management or call 321.235.5438 or 321.235.5439 for assistance and resources.
You can also:
Register for your county’s Special Needs Shelter program.
Special Needs Shelter Information
Sign up for emergency alerts such as OCAlert, OCFL Alert, Orange County Television (OTV), AlertFlorida.
Confirm that shelters and evacuation centers are wheelchair accessible.
Keep your emergency contact information current.
Prepare a kit that meets your individual needs and will last 3–7 days.
Recommended Essentials:
Water (1 gallon per person per day) and non-perishable food
Medications and critical medical supplies
Flashlight, batteries, and a portable charger
Important documents (in a waterproof pouch)
Backup wheelchair, repair tools, or mobility aids
Pet food, supplies, and vaccination records
Cash, hygiene items, and a basic first-aid kit
Ensure that family, caregivers, and friends know your emergency plan:
Who to contact: Identify someone local and someone outside your area.
Where to meet: Choose safe, accessible meeting points within your neighborhood and outside your city.
How to get there: Map out accessible transportation routes and backup options.
Share printed copies of your plan with trusted individuals and review it each year.
Power interruptions can be especially dangerous for people using mobility or medical devices.
Have extended or backup batteries for ventilators, power chairs, or other devices.
Keep batteries charged and test them regularly.
Register with your power company’s medical priority program.
Plan for cooling centers during extreme heat events.
Evacuate early if power loss would put your health at risk.
When disaster strikes, GOSCIN activates local relief efforts to provide food, mobility equipment, emergency supplies, and assistance for individuals with spinal cord injuries throughout the Greater Orlando region. If you have been affected by a disaster and need help, please complete the Emergency Disaster Relief Grant Request Form below.
May 3, 2026 at All Day
May 19, 2026 at 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
May 27, 2026 at 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
June 16, 2026 at 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm