A second annual hurricane preparedness giveaway brought free emergency supplies to families in Broward County as South Florida moves through one of the busiest periods of the Atlantic hurricane season.
The drive-through event was held Saturday, September 19, at the Boys & Girls Club Lauderhill Club on NW 19th Street. Organizers planned to provide hurricane preparedness kits to 150 South Florida families, giving residents an opportunity to replace supplies they may have already used during the season.
Each kit included basic items that can become essential during a storm, including first-aid supplies, canned food, bottled water, flashlights and portable phone chargers. The goal was to help families have some of the necessities they may need if a hurricane or other severe weather event affects the area.
The giveaway was organized by Monarch Air Group in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Broward County, with support from the American Red Cross Broward Chapter. The event followed a strong turnout during its first year and returned as hurricane preparedness remained a concern for families across the region.
For some residents, the assistance offered more than just another supply box. Participants described the giveaway as an important source of help at a time when keeping enough food, water and emergency equipment at home can become difficult for families managing tight household budgets.
Monarch Air Group CEO David Gitman said the company wanted to continue supporting the community where it is based. The Fort Lauderdale aviation company has also been involved in emergency and humanitarian efforts, including assistance connected with disaster response and evacuations.
The timing of this year’s giveaway was particularly relevant because the Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30. The National Hurricane Center identifies September 10 as the climatological peak of the Atlantic season, with much of the basin’s activity occurring from mid-August through mid-October.
As of September 21, the National Hurricane Center’s 2026 Atlantic season summary listed six named storms and no hurricanes, while Tropical Storm Fay was active from September 19 through September 21.
For South Florida residents, the giveaway also serves as a reminder that hurricane preparation is not limited to tracking a storm once one forms. Having drinking water, nonperishable food, lighting, phone-charging equipment and basic medical supplies available ahead of time can make it easier for households to respond when conditions change.
The Lauderhill distribution continued a community effort aimed at making those basic preparations more accessible to local families while the 2026 hurricane season continues.
