MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is collecting supplies to send to the Panhandle and help those impacted by Hurricane Michael.

Deputies have been collecting donations since Sunday, hoping to fill a semi to the brim.

The sheriff's office says basic items are needed, like non-perishable foods, water, paper towels, and baby supplies. However, items like roofing nails, pet food, tarps, and toys to keep kids in good spirits are also desperately needed. 

Many people in the Bay area say they've been through hurricanes before and remember how bad things can be, even after a much smaller storm, so they really felt compelled to help. 

"We thought we'd help out with the people up there devastated by the hurricane. Could've just as easily been us and if it was we would want somebody to help us," Paul Fellone said. 

For more on how you can help, click here.