TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County is providing relief to residents affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In partnership with the National Guard, a comfort station has been opened at the Progress Village Senior Center, located at 8701 Progress Blvd., Tampa, FL 33619.
The station is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering essential services such as showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, and a cooling tent. Hot meals or boxed lunches and dinners are also available.
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Residents who need help getting to and from the comfort station can call (833) HC STORM or (833) 427-8676 for transportation assistance. This service is available daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In addition to the comfort station, the County and National Guard have set up PODs (Points of Distribution) throughout the county to provide further support. Importantly, no identification is required to access services at either the comfort station or the PODs.
Residents who have unmet needs as a result of the hurricanes are encouraged to report them online at HCFL.gov/DamageAssessment or by calling (833) HC-STORM or (833) 427-8676. This information will be directed to the appropriate County department for a response within 72 hours.
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Finally, residents impacted by Hurricane Milton can now apply for aid through FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). This aid includes Serious Needs Assistance, which provides an initial $750 for necessities like food, shelter, and clothing without requiring an inspection.
Assistance is also available for those who have been displaced from their homes due to storm damage. After applying and confirming displacement, residents will receive a FEMA number that can be used when applying for additional assistance through HOPE Florida.
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