President Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida in the wake of Hurricane Milton, which struck the state on October 5th. This declaration unlocks federal aid to support individuals and communities in their recovery efforts.
Federal funding is now available to residents in numerous counties across Florida, including Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia, as well as the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.
READ: Sinkholes Emerge In Florida As Latest Threat In Hurricane Milton’s Wake
Assistance for Individuals and Families:
This aid can include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs designed to help individuals and business owners get back on their feet.
Assistance for State and Local Governments:
Federal funding is also available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and debris removal in the affected counties. For the first 90 days, assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, is authorized at 100%.
READ: Florida Grapples With Impacts From Hurricane Milton As New System Brews In Atlantic
Hazard Mitigation:
Cost-sharing federal funding is also available for hazard mitigation measures statewide, aiming to reduce future risks from disasters.
How to Apply for Assistance:
Individuals and business owners who suffered losses in the designated areas can apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App. Those who use relay services should provide FEMA with the number for that service.
John E. Brogan has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer to oversee recovery operations in the affected areas. The situation will continue to be assessed, and additional areas may be designated for assistance at a later date.
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