Polk State classes resume Saturday, September 28

Polk State College will resume classes and normal operations on Saturday, September 28, following Hurricane Helene. Students and employees are advised to exercise caution while traveling to and from campuses.

Given that many members of the College community reside throughout Central Florida, some may still be facing challenges related to utility restoration, transportation, or childcare. Students are encouraged to communicate with their professors about any difficulties they may encounter.

Additionally, the College has compiled a list of community resources to assist in recovering from the impacts of the storm.

United Way of Central Florida

United Way of Central Florida’s 2-1-1 provides emergency information, natural disaster relief, available shelters, financial assistance, and more. To get connected, text your zip code to 898-211, email uw211help@gmail.com, or dial 2-1-1 on your phone.

American Red Cross of Mid-Florida

American Red Cross in Winter Haven is available by calling 863.294.5941 or calling the American Red Cross toll-free at 800.733.2767.

Polk State’s My Brother’s Keeper

Students in need of food or school supplies can email mybrotherskeeper@polk.edu with “Hurricane Assistance” in the subject line to be connected with resources.

Polk State Pantry

The Polk State Pantry on the Lakeland Campus also provides food, hygiene items, and supplies. Students can contact a Teaching Learning Computing Center (TLCC) staff member in person, by calling 863.297.1044, or by emailing Kim DeRonda at kderonda@polk.edu. Times can be arranged to accommodate students, and services are confidential.

Citrus Connection

Public transportation is free with a Polk State student ID.

Free WiFi

Comcast has opened public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in its areas of service in Florida. For a map of public Xfinity WiFi hotspots, visit Finder.wifi.xfinity.com.

When a hotspot is within range, select the “xfinitywifi” network on a device’s list of available networks and launch a browser. Sign-in options will appear for both Xfinity customers and non-customers. Non-Xfinity internet subscribers need to look for the “Get Connected” section and agree to the Terms and Conditions to be connected.

BayCare Student Assistance Program

Polk State students have access to BayCare’s Personal Advantage, an online resource for help with everything from preparing for exams to creating a personal budget to managing stress. Students can also call 1.800.878.5470 to receive immediate assistance over the phone from a licensed counselor. All services are free and confidential.