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Need Help with FEMA Application or Other Crucial Recovery Efforts?

| Suncoast Post Staff |

Hurricanes Helene and Milton left a path of destruction across the Suncoast communities, with heavy winds, torrential rains, and widespread flooding battering homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. As residents begin the difficult process of recovery, many are faced with challenges ranging from rebuilding damaged property to accessing essential supplies and services. In response, numerous organizations and local agencies have stepped up to offer aid. Below is a comprehensive list of resources to help support recovery efforts in a variety of ways, from financial assistance and shelter to mental health services and debris removal.

FEMA Application Support

A FEMA application after a hurricane is a request for federal disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This application is for individuals and households affected by a natural disaster, like a hurricane, who need financial assistance or services to help recover. If you need assistance with your FEMA application, you can reach out to Sande Caplin (sande@sandecaplin.com), providing your name, email, and phone number. Sande will get back to you to arrange a time to meet and help get your application process started.

Federal and State Resources:

  1. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
    • Provides financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related needs.
    • Application: www.disasterassistance.gov
  2. Florida Disaster Fund
    • The state’s official private fund to assist communities as they recover. Donations are directed to organizations aiding in disaster recovery.
    • Website: www.volunteerflorida.org
  3. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance
    • Offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses and homeowners.
    • Website: www.sba.gov

Local Emergency Management Offices:

  1. Hillsborough County Emergency Management (Tampa)
  2. Pinellas County Emergency Management (Clearwater)
  3. Sarasota County Emergency Management
  4. Manatee County Emergency Management (Bradenton)

Local and National Organizations:

  1. American Red Cross
    • Provides emergency shelter, food, and supplies after hurricanes.
    • Website: www.redcross.org
    • Phone: (800) 733-2767
  2. Salvation Army
  3. United Way Suncoast
    • Provides hurricane recovery assistance, financial aid, and connects residents to local resources.
    • Website: www.unitedwaysuncoast.org
    • Phone: (813) 274-0900
  4. Feeding Tampa Bay
    • Offers food assistance to families in need post-hurricane.
    • Website: www.feedingtampabay.org
    • Phone: (813) 254-1190
  5. Habitat for Humanity Sarasota & Manatee

Mental Health and Emotional Support:

  1. Disaster Distress Helpline
    • Provides crisis counseling for emotional distress related to a disaster.
    • Phone: (800) 985-5990
    • Website: www.samhsa.gov
  2. Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
    • Offers mental health counseling and support services.
    • Website: www.crisiscenter.com
    • Phone: (813) 964-1964
  3. Sarasota County Community Services

Shelters and Housing Assistance:

  1. Catholic Charities Diocese of St. Petersburg
    • Provides shelter, food, and long-term housing recovery programs.
    • Website: www.ccdosp.org
  2. Florida Housing Finance Corporation

Recovering from the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton will take time, but with the support of these resources, Suncoast residents can begin to rebuild their lives and communities. Whether you need immediate relief, assistance with long-term recovery, or emotional support to navigate the challenges ahead, help is available. Remember, you’re not alone in this process, and together, we can overcome the hardships left in the storms’ wake. Be sure to reach out to the listed organizations and programs for the help you need as we work toward restoring our vibrant coastal communities.

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