Talbot County, Maryland

06/17/2024

Category: Partner Agencies Emergency Services

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Linda Webb, Director of Social Services, provides an overview of what the emergency shelter has to offer.

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Ben Pittsley points out where food is distributed. The cafeteria area is used for food distribution and a gathering space. The gym is preserved as the designated sleeping area.

In preparation for hurricane season, the Talbot County Department of Social Services, with support of the Talbot County DES, ensures the county's designated emergency shelter is fully operational and ready to serve.

The tour, led by Talbot County Department of Social Services Assistant Director of Administration Ben Pittsley, guided staff and partners through the designated shelter area, ensuring that everyone is fully trained and prepared to accommodate residents.

When activated, the right-hand section of the Easton High School building including the cafeteria and gym, are transformed into an emergency shelter designed to provide safety during extreme weather conditions or other emergencies.

In the event an emergency shelter is needed, the space would be stocked with essential supplies, including food, water, and sleeping accommodations. In addition, the Talbot County Health Department operates a health clinic, and Talbot Humane coordinates pet sheltering.

The Talbot County Department of Social Services, though operating locally within Talbot County, is a State-run agency under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Department of Human Services. This distinction means that while they provide essential services and support within Talbot County, they are not part of Talbot County Government. Instead, they function as an extension of State level resources and programs, bringing specialized expertise and support to our local community.

"Collaboration is key to our emergency preparedness strategy," said Brian LeCates, Director for Talbot County Department of Emergency Services. "The Talbot County Department of Social Services brings valuable resources and expertise that complement our local efforts. By working together, we can better ensure the safety and well-being of our residents during hurricane season.”

The partnership with the Talbot County Department of Social Services is crucial for the effective operation of the emergency shelter. Their team staffs the shelter and provides needed services and referrals to community partners during and after a crisis event. The Talbot County Health Department, another State-run agency, is also crucial to the process by providing medical care for individuals at the shelter.

"We are proud to work alongside the County government and Emergency Services to support the community during emergencies," said Linda Webb, Director of Talbot County Department of Social Services. "Our role is to support the Talbot County community while connecting to State-level resources and expertise, ensuring that all residents have access to the help they need during a crisis.”

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about hurricane preparedness by visiting the County's website at talbotdes.org and the Maryland Department of Human Services website at dhs.maryland.gov. These resources provide guidelines on how to prepare for a hurricane, including evacuation routes, emergency contact information, and tips for creating a personal emergency plan.

For more information about the County’s emergency shelter and preparedness efforts, visit talbotdes.org or contact Geneva Schaffle, Emergency Management Coordinator at gschaffle@talbotcountymd.gov.

hurricane preparedness emergency shelter social services state agency