Hurricane Ian's Deadly Punch to One Florida Dairy

The Category 4 Atlantic hurricane was both deadly and destructive. It ranks as the second most damaging hurricane, behind Hurricane Katrina in 2005, to make landfall. Despite experiencing Hurricane Ian firsthand, Dakin Dairy Farms in Myakka City, Fla., is committed to not only making sure their cows are still well cared for, but they’re also becoming a helping hub for their local community.

Courtney Dakin, the farm’s tour director, says they are taking in donations and sending them out, and she encourages anyone in need to reach out to them.

“Dakin Dairy would like to be a hub for the community. If you have anything you would like to donate, we have the means to disperse it. If you have any needs, please reach out,” the farm posted on its Facebook page over the weekend.

As of Monday afternoon, Dakin says the community is still in dire need of supplies.

“Water, batteries, flashlights, hygiene products, bedding, gas, propane, air mattresses, tarps, water, non-perishables, Gatorade,” Dakin lists. “Whatever you can offer.”

Dakin says they are also in need of help to get donated products to Myakka City. 

“We are hoping to help those in much more need in North Port and Arcadia as well,” she says.

The 4,000-cow dairy lost more than 250 cows after Hurricane Ian battered them with 100-plus mph winds. Dakin says the number is likely to rise, as many have developed respiratory problems like pneumonia due to their prolonged exposure to the weather conditions during the storm.

“Feed and water are the No. 1 priorities to make sure our cows are well cared for,” Dakin says. 

Despite steel being torn off buildings, the focus is on ensuring the cows that survived the storm are cared for in the best way possible.

“A lot of our power is going in and out,” Dakin says. “We already operate 24 hours a day. Our cows still must be milked, even after a hurricane. We’re doing our best.”

The Florida dairy has turned their café into a donation hub.

"We are collecting as well as passing supplies out," Dakin says. 

Dakin Dairy thanks the entire community for stepping up and lending a helping hand. They shared on their Facebook page that they are  grateful for every person that has showed up to help.

For more information on how to donate, go to Dakin Dairy Farms Facebook page.

"Local cash donations can be made in our café," Dakin adds.