One week after Irma, electricity and food still scarce in Highlands

SEBRING (FOX 13) - Monday, volunteers with the Salvation Army handed out thousands of hot meals to Highlands County residents who otherwise may not have one.

"We've served about 10,000 meals since we started serving Wednesday," said the Salvation Army's Major Ernest Hull.

Thousands of residents in Highlands are still dealing with the problems left behind by Hurricane Irma.  Power still remains one of the biggest issues.

Even eight days after the storm, there are still some 20,000 Duke Energy customers without power in Highlands.

"Went out and got canned goods, bread, water, hot dogs. I can cook but I forgot we weren't going to have electricity so all my food spoiled," said Annie Washington.

Monday was her and her husband's fourth day waiting on a meal.

"It has been really tough, can't sleep at night," she complained.

Elsewhere, power isn't the only issue to deal with.

"I'm a little more one with nature than I wanted to be," said Cheryl Layton, who has a tree resting on part of her home.

"It is sad because I love trees and that was my favorite,” she continued.  “Not so much now.”

As for when the power will come back, Duke Energy says Highlands County should be fully restored by 11 p.m. Tuesday.