CFO Jimmy Patronis Deploys Mental Health Resources for First Responders Following Milton

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis deployed mental health resources for first responders to areas impacted by Hurricane Milton. The Florida Mental Wellness Team has been actively deployed under the State Emergency Response Plan (SERP) through ESF 4 & 9, managed by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The team, which is comprised of nearly 25 members from 16 fire departments across Florida, receives essential clinical support from the 2nd Alarm Project and UCF RESTORES, ensuring a comprehensive mental wellness approach for the state’s first responders.

The field teams are actively working in Charlotte and St. Lucie Counties, and on their first day alone, they visited 33 fire stations, providing direct support to 329 first responders. These efforts are aimed at addressing immediate stressors and ensuring the operational readiness of first responders on the frontlines.

CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “When disasters strike, Florida's first responders rush into danger at a moment's notice. These men and women are the tip of the spear in disaster response and recovery and their bravery and dedication is unmatched. After Florida was struck by back to back storms in just a span of a few weeks, it's vital that we provide these heroes with the resources they need to stay resilient and protect their mental health while serving our communities. That's why we have deployed nearly 25 Florida Mental Wellness Team members into the field, with an additional six members preparing for mobilization as we speak. Deployed personnel are working both as part of the Incident Management Team and Mental Wellness Teams, providing crucial mental health support during this critical time. Florida's emergency response efforts are second to none and I thank our state and local partners for supporting them as they help our state recover."

Incoming teams will focus specifically on the well-being of the deployed Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces, with any additional needs being directed toward impacted local first responders. The Mental Wellness Team’s efforts include helping manage acute stressors and fostering resilience during the challenging deployment. Additionally, the team is laying the groundwork for long-term capacity building across the state, ensuring that all Florida first responders have access to effective mental health resources. 

###