Special Needs Information

Bay County offers a Special Needs Shelter (SpNS) for individuals with medical or functional needs who require assistance during a disaster and cannot evacuate to a general population shelter. They are operated by the Florida Department of Health in Bay County, Bay District Schools and Bay County Emergency Services with medical staff and emergency power backup.

Who qualifies?

• Individuals who rely on medical devices requiring electricity
• Those with chronic or acute medical conditions
• Individuals who require skilled nursing assistance
• Anyone requiring caregiver support during sheltering

How to register:

• Visit the Florida Special Needs Registry: https://snr.flhealthresponse.com
• You may also contact the Bay County Department of Health at (850) 872-4455 for assistance or questions

Note: Early registration is strongly encouraged before the start of hurricane season.

Special Needs Shelters - CLOSED (current as of Jun 29, 2025)

These shelters are designated for individuals with medical, access, or functional needs who cannot safely evacuate to a general population shelter. Pre-registration through the Florida Special Needs Registry is required.

• Deane Bozeman Learning Center (Primary Special Needs Shelter)
  13410 Highway 77, Panama City, FL 32409
• Northside Elementary School (Alternate Special Needs Shelter)
  2001 Northside Drive, Panama City, FL 32401