Need Disaster Assistance?

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Hurricanes Milton and Helene have wreaked havoc across Florida and the Southeast. If you were impacted by these storms, the following resources may help.

If you don't have power and/or Internet access, shelters may provide ways to charge your devices and may have Internet access. If libraries are open, you may be able to use computers there. Other options include friends and family that weren't affected or whose power has already been restored.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): www.disasterassistance.gov

It's important to check out any rumors you hear about FEMA assistance.

7 Things to Know About Applying for Disaster Assistance
Applying for assistance is a quick and simple process using the FEMA app, calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or visiting www.disasterassistance.gov and clicking the Let's Get Started button. You may want to view this article before you apply.

FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in many areas.

Available assistance includes:

  • Serious Needs Assistance
    $750 is available per household for the first month after a disaster declaration for immediate needs like food, water, baby formula, and emergency supplies.

  • Displacement Assistance
    is a lump sum that can be used to pay for two weeks in a hotel or with family and friends if you cannot return home becaue of the disaster.

  • Financial Housing Assistance
    Up to $42,500 per household is available to cover up to 18 months of rent, or to repiar or replace a home. Direct Temporary Housing Assistance provides use of FEMA-issued temporary transportable housing units andmay be available for short-term housing. This aid may take time to process.

  • Other Needs Assistance
    Up to $42,500 that can be used to cover medical and funeral expenses, transportation, child care, and the replacement of personal property.

FEMA fact sheets (PDF):

Florida Emergency Management: www.floridadisaster.org

  • State Assistance Information Line: 1-800-342-3557
    This call center runs 24/7 and can answer any questions related to Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene in English, Spanish, and Creole.

  • Activate Hope
    Pulls together the private sector, nonprofits, and government resources to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster. Activate Hope helps connect Floridians with outside resources to provide food, household goods, home repairs, and more.

  • Florida 211
    Call 211 or visit https://fl211.org. A 24/7 free resource that can help you with disaster information and assistance.

Other Resources