New procedures in place to avoid disaster food assistance lines in South Florida

SUNRISE, Fla. – Hoping to avoid the massive lines that overwhelmed authorities and frustrated residents weeks after Hurricane Irma, a new procedure has been set in place when the disaster food assistance program opens again in Miami-Dade and Broward County on Nov. 7-9

Unlike previous attempts when locations were scattered at parks across the county, the only location to open in Broward will be at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami-Dade.

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However, those hoping to get in line to receive assistance from the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program must only arrive on days determined by their last names.

Residents looking for help will be served on the following days corresponding to the first letter of their last name:

  • Tuesday, November 7: A-F
  • Wednesday, November 8: G-P
  • Thursday, November 9: Q-Z

Gates to the BB&T Center will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. on each day.

Authorities hope the new system will alleviate the long lines that forced the program to shut down after a few days in October.

The Sunrise Police Department will oversee the event and says bags or personal items larger than 12 by 12 inches, backpacks, coolers, and chairs will not be permitted.