Helping to Rebuild After Hurricane Milton

Homes across Florida have been devastated by the unprecedented impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As communities face the aftermath, the road to recovery will be long and challenging, especially for those already grappling with the damage caused by Helene before Milton made landfall near Siesta Key.

For those whose homes have been damaged, or if you find yourself in need of assistance, there are both federal and state resources available to help you through this difficult time. And for those witnessing the devastation from afar, wondering how to contribute, there are several ways you can offer support.

Steps to Take If Your Home Was Damaged by Hurricane Milton

If your property sustained damage from Hurricane Milton, it is crucial to take action promptly. The first step is to file claims with your home and flood insurance (if applicable) and document the damage with photos as soon as it is safe to do so.

Experts recommend taking photos from multiple angles and using reference points, such as a tape measure, to clearly demonstrate the extent of the damage. Additionally, for assistance with debris removal and clearing fallen trees, Floridians can contact the Crisis Cleanup hotline at 1-844-965-1386.

A word of caution: Refrain from touching any debris that may be entangled with downed power lines. Safety must remain a priority.

Federal Assistance Available

In the immediate aftermath of a hurricane, federal aid can provide crucial relief. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers initial financial support through its Serious Needs Assistance program, which provides up to $750 per household to cover emergency essentials like food, water, medication, and other supplies following a disaster declaration. This assistance is available during the first 30 days post-disaster.

FEMA also offers Displacement Assistance, a lump sum to cover temporary lodging costs for up to two weeks for those unable to return home. For homeowners, up to $42,500 per household is available to support home repairs or rebuilding through FEMA's Financial Housing Assistance program, and additional rental assistance for up to 18 months can help survivors find stable, longer-term housing.

Additional Support for Broader Needs

Beyond the structural damage to homes, other losses can be just as devastating. FEMA's Other Needs Assistance program, which provides up to $42,500, can help cover the cost of replacing essential household items, paying for childcare, or even handling funeral expenses for those who lost loved ones in the storm.

When applying for FEMA aid, it's important to disclose any existing insurance coverage. FEMA assistance is intended to supplement, not duplicate, insurance payouts.

Given that only about 4% of homeowners carry flood insurance-a gap made painfully clear by the inland flooding from Hurricane Helene-federal, state, and nonprofit grants can play a critical role in helping those whose homes have been damaged by floods but lack proper insurance coverage.

Several nonprofit organizations, including the Red Cross and Samaritan's Purse, are providing additional aid. Their services range from debris cleanup to offering shelter and supporting family reunification efforts. For further information on these resources, visit Floridadisaster.org.

The Florida Disaster Legal Aid Helpline is also available to assist residents with legal and insurance-related questions in the wake of the storm.

To apply for FEMA assistance, you can call the Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), visit the FEMA app, or apply online at www.disasterassistance.gov. Alternatively, visit a Disaster Recovery Center in person for help navigating the application process.

Beyond Financial Aid: Supporting Immediate Needs

Beyond monetary assistance, FEMA is prepared to provide 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water to assist those impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. If you've been separated from loved ones during the storm, the American Red Cross' reunification teams can offer assistance in reconnecting families.

How You Can Help Those Affected

For those watching the devastation unfold, there are many ways to lend support to recovery efforts. Humanitarian, state, and federal agencies are raising funds and organizing relief efforts for survivors.

• The American Red Cross is collecting donations to provide shelter and support to those affected.
• The Humane Society is raising funds to assist and transport animals displaced by the storm.
• United Way of Florida is using its Disaster Recovery Fund to provide critical aid to local communities.
• Direct Relief has made $78 million in medicines and medical supplies available to healthcare providers in the hardest-hit areas and is accepting donations for relief efforts.
• Feeding Tampa Bay is preparing thousands of meals for those impacted by the storms, as well as for first responders.
• World Central Kitchen has also mobilized to provide meals in the wake of both hurricanes.

For those in a position to help on the ground, volunteer opportunities abound. Organizations like the Red Cross and All Hands and Hearts are recruiting volunteers to assist with cleanup, aid distribution, and other essential recovery tasks. Donations of supplies are also welcomed.

A Community Coming Together

Hurricanes Helene and Milton have undoubtedly tested the resolve of our precious Gulf Coast community, but the response has been one of incredible resilience, unity, and hope. By coming together-whether through direct aid, volunteering, or supporting relief organizations-we can help rebuild lives and restore the strength of our communities.

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