disaster assistance resources
GETTING THE HELP YOU NEED
If you’ve been hit hard by a hurricane, we know how overwhelming it can feel. But you’re not alone—help is available. Whether you need money to fix your home, a safe place to stay, or support to get back on your feet, there are programs designed to assist you. In this section, we’ll walk you through how to apply for aid, who to contact, and where to find the resources you need to start rebuilding your life.
Here’s what we will cover in this section:
WHERE TO GET HELP
Recovering from a disaster like a hurricane can be a long and difficult process, but help is available from many sources. Federal programs like FEMA and the SBA provide financial aid for home repairs and temporary housing, while state and local governments offer immediate support such as shelters, debris removal, and utility assistance. If you’re dealing with insurance claims or need emotional support, there are resources to guide you through each step. This section pulls together everything you need to know to access the help you deserve—whether it’s financial aid, insurance support, or crisis counseling—so you can begin rebuilding with confidence.
After a hurricane, the federal government has programs to help you get through tough times. FEMA and other agencies can offer money for repairs, temporary housing, and even help with medical bills or replacing lost items. In this section, we’ll show you how to apply for this assistance and what kinds of help are available to get you back on your feet.
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
After a disaster like a hurricane, FEMA is one of the main agencies that helps individuals and families get back on their feet. If your home was damaged, you had to evacuate, or you lost essential items, FEMA has programs designed to assist with many of your needs.
Individual Assistance Programs
FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program helps you recover after a disaster. Here are the types of help you can get:
Temporary Housing Assistance: If your home was destroyed or is unsafe to live in, FEMA can help pay for you to stay somewhere else while your home is being repaired. This could be in a hotel, rental home, or apartment.
- Important to Know: FEMA’s rental assistance is usually provided for two months at a time. You may need to reapply for more help if repairs take longer than expected. Be sure to keep all receipts if you’re staying at a hotel.
Home Repair Assistance:
If your home has been damaged but is still standing, FEMA can provide money to help with basic repairs. This money is meant to make your home safe, sanitary, and functional, but it might not cover all the costs to fully restore your home.
- Examples of What’s Covered: Structural repairs (like walls, roofs), utility repairs (water, electrical systems), and essential appliances (fridges, stoves).
- Important: FEMA is not a replacement for insurance. It only covers basic repairs. If you have insurance, FEMA may cover what your insurance does not.
Replacing Personal Property:
If the hurricane destroyed your essential belongings, FEMA can help replace things like furniture, clothes, kitchen appliances, and other household items.
- What’s Considered Essential: Basic furniture (like beds or couches), clothing, kitchen items (like a fridge or stove), and personal hygiene supplies.
Critical Needs Assistance (CNA)
FEMA offers an immediate payment of $750 to help meet your most urgent needs. If you had to evacuate your home and lost access to food, water, medications, or basic supplies, you may qualify for this one-time payment.
What It Covers: This money can be used for immediate needs like:
- Food and water
- Prescription medications
- Baby supplies (diapers, formula)
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrushes, soap, etc.)
How It Works: This payment is separate from other FEMA aid and is usually available within a few days if you qualify. You will receive the funds through direct deposit or a check once your application is approved.
Other Needs Assistance (ONA)
FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance covers additional disaster-related expenses that might not fall under housing or repair costs. Here’s what it can help with:
- Medical and Dental Bills:Â If you or someone in your household was injured or needed medical care because of the hurricane, FEMA may help cover those costs. This can include hospital stays, medications, or dental care.
- Funeral Costs:Â If a loved one passed away as a result of the hurricane, FEMA can help cover the costs of the funeral, burial, or cremation.
- Transportation:Â If your car was damaged or destroyed by the hurricane, FEMA may provide money to repair or replace it. This includes vehicles used for daily transportation, like getting to work or school.
- Other Disaster-Related Expenses:Â FEMA can also help with other essential items you may need after the disaster, like:
- Work Tools: If you lost tools or equipment needed for your job, FEMA can help replace them.
- Clean-Up Supplies: Money for cleaning items like mops, buckets, gloves, or masks to safely clean your home.
- Storage Costs: If you need to temporarily store your belongings because your home is damaged, FEMA might help pay for storage fees.
How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
Applying for FEMA assistance is straightforward, but you will need to provide certain information. Here are the steps to apply and what you’ll need:
Ways to Apply:
- Online: Go to disasterassistance.gov to start your application. The website will guide you through the process step by step.
- By Phone: Call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a hearing or speech disability, use TTY at 1-800-462-7585.
- FEMA Mobile App: You can also download the FEMA app from the Apple or Google Play store and apply directly from your phone.
- In Person: If a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is set up in your area, you can visit one to get help with your application. FEMA representatives can guide you through the process and answer questions.
What You’ll Need to Apply:
- Your Social Security Number: You’ll need your own or a household member’s Social Security number.
- Insurance Information: If you have homeowners or renters insurance, have your policy number ready.
- Description of Damage: Be prepared to describe the type of damage your home or property suffered.
- Banking Information: To receive direct deposit of any FEMA funds, you’ll need to provide your bank account and routing numbers.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) doesn’t just help businesses—it also provides low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses affected by a disaster like a hurricane. These loans can help cover the cost of repairing damage to your home, replacing personal belongings, or getting your business back up and running. Here are the types of loans available:
SBA Home and Personal Property Loans
If you’re a homeowner or renter, and your property was damaged or destroyed in the hurricane, the SBA offers loans to help with repairs or replacement.
Homeowners: You can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or rebuild your home after a disaster. This loan can cover structural repairs to your home, including repairing the roof, walls, floors, windows, and other parts of the house. It can also be used to replace or repair utilities like heating, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Important to Know: The loan can’t be used to upgrade your home or make improvements beyond what it was like before the disaster.
Renters: If you’re renting and you lost personal belongings in the hurricane, you can borrow up to $100,000 to replace them. This can include damaged or destroyed clothing, furniture, appliances, and cars.
Who Can Apply: Both homeowners and renters can apply for these loans, even if they don’t own the property, as long as the damage affects their living situation.
SBA Business Physical Disaster Loans
These loans are for businesses and nonprofit organizations that had physical damage to their property. If you own a business and it was damaged by the hurricane, you can use this loan to repair or replace:
- Buildings and Offices: Whether you own a store, office, or warehouse, you can get help to repair the damage.
- Machinery and Equipment: If your business relies on machines or equipment that were damaged, you can use this loan to repair or replace them.
- Inventory: If the hurricane destroyed any of your inventory (products you sell or materials you use), this loan can help you buy new stock to keep your business running.
- Loan Limits: You can borrow up to $2 million to cover these costs.
- Who Can Apply: This loan is available to businesses of all sizes, as well as nonprofit organizations like churches or charities.
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) is designed to help businesses and nonprofits when a disaster causes them to lose income, even if there wasn’t any physical damage.
- What It Covers: This loan provides working capital to help businesses pay bills, payroll, and other expenses that can’t be met because of the disaster. It’s especially helpful for businesses that had to close during the hurricane and need help paying employees or keeping up with operating expenses until things return to normal.
- Loan Limits: Like the physical disaster loans, businesses can borrow up to $2 million to help cover financial losses.
- Who Can Apply: Any small business or nonprofit organization suffering financially from the disaster can apply, even if the business wasn’t physically damaged.
How to Apply for SBA Disaster Loans
The process for applying for an SBA disaster loan is fairly straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
- Apply Online: You can start your application by visiting disasterloan.sba.gov. The website will walk you through the steps to complete your application.
- By Phone: If you need help with your application or have questions, you can call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955. For those with hearing or speech impairments, use TTY 1-800-877-8339.
- In Person: If an SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) or Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is set up in your area, you can visit them to get in-person help with your application. SBA representatives will be available to answer questions and help you through the process.
What You’ll Need to Apply
When applying for an SBA loan, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Identification and Financial Info: You’ll need personal identification (Social Security number, etc.), as well as details about your income, expenses, and any insurance coverage.
- Damage Description: Be ready to describe the damage to your property or business. If possible, have photos or estimates to support your claim.
- Insurance Info: While SBA loans can cover costs that insurance doesn’t, you’ll need to provide information about your insurance policies and what they cover.
In addition to federal programs, there are state and local resources available to help you recover after a hurricane. These programs are designed to provide more immediate support within your community, whether you need a safe place to stay, help cleaning up your home, or assistance with paying bills. Here’s how to tap into these state and local services.
Florida State Disaster Assistance
The Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) coordinates the state’s response after a hurricane. They provide support in several key areas:
Shelters and Temporary Housing:
If you’ve been displaced by the hurricane, the state sets up emergency shelters in schools, community centers, and other locations. Some of these shelters are equipped to accommodate pets as well.
Where to Find Help: You can find a list of open shelters on the Florida Division of Emergency Management website (floridadisaster.org) or by calling the Florida Emergency Information Line at 1-800-342-3557.
Temporary Housing Programs:
Beyond emergency shelters, Florida also offers assistance through longer-term housing programs if your home is destroyed or unlivable. This can include temporary housing units or help finding rental housing while repairs are made.
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs):
These are physical locations where you can go to apply for help, talk to FEMA or SBA representatives, and get assistance with paperwork. The centers often have state, local, and federal representatives available to answer your questions.
Local Government Resources
Each county in Florida has its own emergency management office that provides services after a hurricane. These local offices coordinate things like:
Debris Removal:
After a storm, local governments organize debris removal services to help clear fallen trees, damaged structures, and other waste. Be sure to check your county’s guidelines on how to place debris at the curb for pickup.
Utility Assistance:
Some counties and utility companies offer assistance for those struggling to pay their electric, water, or gas bills after a hurricane. They may also prioritize restoring service to essential buildings, like hospitals and schools, but residential areas typically follow closely after.
Who to Contact: Check your local utility company’s website or call them directly for updates on service restoration or bill relief programs. In some cases, they may suspend late fees or offer payment plans.
Local Aid Programs:
Many counties also offer grants or financial aid to help with housing repairs, food assistance, or other basic needs for residents in the hardest-hit areas. These funds may come from the county itself or from partnerships with charitable organizations.
Example: Your county might set up emergency food distribution centers, provide temporary financial aid, or offer free transportation services for residents in need.
Non-Profit and Charitable Assistance
In addition to state and local government help, there are many charitable organizations that step in after disasters to offer services like food, shelter, and financial support.
American Red Cross:
The Red Cross provides emergency shelters, food, water, and medical care to those affected by hurricanes. They also help with emergency financial assistance if you’ve been displaced from your home or need help covering immediate expenses.
Where to Find Help:Â Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to find your nearest shelter or learn about available assistance.
Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army offers disaster relief services, including shelters, food distribution, and emergency financial assistance for hurricane survivors. They often have mobile feeding units in hard-hit areas and provide clothing or hygiene items for those in need.
How to Reach Them: Visit salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) for more information.
How to Apply for State and Local Assistance
To apply for assistance through state and local programs, here’s where to start:
Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM):
Visit floridadisaster.org or call 1-800-342-3557 to find out what services are available, including shelter locations, food distribution, and housing aid.
Your County Emergency Management Office:
You can find contact information for your local emergency management office through the FDEM website or your county’s government page. These offices will be able to tell you about local resources like debris removal, temporary housing, and utility assistance.
Charitable Organizations:
Most charities, like the Red Cross or Salvation Army, have websites where you can find the nearest shelter or assistance location. You can also call them directly to ask about the services they offer.
After a hurricane, filing an insurance claim is one of the first steps to recovering your losses. Whether your home, car, or personal belongings were damaged, your insurance policy can help cover the cost of repairs and replacements. This section will walk you through the process of filing claims, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your coverage.
Filing a Homeowners or Renters Insurance Claim
If your home or personal belongings were damaged by the hurricane, here’s how to get started:
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. Most insurance companies have a 24-hour claims line specifically for disasters. Be sure to have your policy number and details ready.
- Document the Damage: Before cleaning up, take photos or videos of everything that was damaged. Make sure you document all affected areas, both inside and outside of your home, including any structural damage, furniture, appliances, and personal items.
- Mitigate Further Damage: Your policy likely requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your property. For example, you may need to cover broken windows or put a tarp over a damaged roof. Keep receipts for any repairs you make, as your insurance might reimburse you.
- Work with the Adjuster: After you file your claim, your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to point out all areas of concern and provide any documentation you’ve collected.
- Keep Track of Your Expenses: If you need to stay in a hotel or make temporary repairs, keep all receipts and track your expenses. Your insurance may cover these costs as part of your claim.
Flood Insurance and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
If your home was flooded, standard homeowners or renters insurance likely won’t cover the damage. However, if you have a separate flood insurance policy, here’s what to do:
- Contact Your Flood Insurance Provider: If you have a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer, start by reporting the damage. You’ll need your policy number and information about the extent of the flooding.
- Document the Flood Damage: As with a homeowners claim, take photos and videos of all areas affected by flooding. Include photos of the water levels inside your home, any damaged furniture or belongings, and the exterior of your property.
- Work with the Adjuster: NFIP will send an adjuster to inspect the flood damage. Make sure you’re present during the inspection to show the damage and provide your documentation.
- Cleanup Tips: While waiting for the adjuster, don’t throw away damaged items. Keep everything, as the adjuster may need to inspect it. If you need to remove water or start drying out your home, make sure to document everything first and keep receipts for any expenses.
Tips for Navigating the Insurance Process
- Know Your Coverage: Review your policy to understand what is covered and what your deductible is. If you’re unsure, ask your insurance agent to explain the details.
- Stay Organized: Keep a folder with all important documents, including your policy, photos, receipts, and communication with your insurance company. Staying organized will help you stay on top of the claims process.
- Be Persistent: Insurance claims can take time, especially after a large-scale disaster. Don’t hesitate to follow up with your insurance company regularly and ask for updates.
- Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Not documenting all damage before starting cleanup.
- Failing to report the claim quickly.
- Assuming flood damage is covered under homeowners insurance.
What to Do if Your Claim is Denied or Incomplete
If your insurance company denies your claim or doesn’t cover everything, you still have options:
- Ask for an Explanation: Request a written explanation of why the claim was denied or why certain damages weren’t covered.
- Submit Additional Documentation: If the denial is due to a lack of documentation, gather any missing information and resubmit it.
- File an Appeal: If you believe the denial was wrong, most insurance companies allow you to file an appeal. Be prepared with as much documentation as possible to support your case.
- Seek Legal Help: If you’re still having trouble getting the insurance company to pay your claim, consider reaching out to a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims. Many law firms offer free consultations for hurricane-related claims.
Coming Soon
How to Stay Informed
Staying informed during and after a hurricane is critical for your safety and for knowing when to take action. From weather updates to disaster relief information, staying connected will help you make the right decisions at the right time. Here are several ways you can keep yourself and your family informed before, during, and after a storm.
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
Many local and federal agencies offer free alert systems to keep you updated with real-time information.
- FEMA Alerts: Sign up for alerts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to receive warnings about dangerous weather, evacuation orders, and safety updates. Visit ready.gov/alerts or download the FEMA app to receive notifications directly on your phone.
- Local County Alerts: Most counties have emergency alert systems that will notify you of local road closures, evacuation routes, and updates on utilities. Check with your county’s emergency management office to sign up for these services. Visit your county government’s website or call their emergency management office to sign up for text or email alerts.
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): These alerts are automatically sent to your cell phone during major emergencies like hurricanes, tornadoes, or flash floods. You don’t need to sign up—if your phone is WEA-capable, you will receive these alerts.
Use Trusted Weather and News Sources
During a hurricane, it’s essential to get your updates from trusted sources so you can make informed decisions.
- National Weather Service (NWS): The National Weather Service provides real-time updates on hurricanes, storm tracks, and weather warnings. Visit weather.gov or listen to the NOAA Weather Radio for real-time updates.
- Local News Stations: Tune in to your local TV or radio news stations for updates specific to your area. Many news stations also have apps that send out push notifications during emergencies.
- Local Radio Stations: If power is out and you don’t have access to TV or the internet, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio can be a lifesaver. Tune in to local emergency channels for continuous updates.
Follow Official Social Media Accounts
Many emergency agencies provide real-time updates on social media, making it a great way to stay connected. Pro Tip: Be sure to only follow official accounts to avoid misinformation during a crisis.
Download Disaster Apps
FEMA MOBILE APP
Real-time weather alerts, find Disaster Recovery Centers, and access safety tips.
Emergency App
This app provides emergency alerts and safety information for a variety of disasters, including hurricanes.
myradar app
This app gives real-time weather updates and radar views, allowing you to track the storm’s path and severity.
CONCLUSION
Recovering from a hurricane is a tough journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are many resources available from the state, local governments, and charitable organizations to help you rebuild your life. Whether you need temporary shelter, financial aid, or help with food and supplies, assistance is available to get you through this difficult time. Remember, it’s important to reach out as soon as possible to start the process and get the support you need. Your community and local organizations are here to help every step of the way.
