Hurricane Resources

Business Recovery Center

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is opening a Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Hillsborough County at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 16 to provide one-on-one assistance with submitting disaster loan applications for Florida businesses impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene.

SBA Customer Service Representatives will be available to answer questions about the disaster loan program and assist business owners in completing their applications. The BRC plays a critical role during disasters, assisting businesses in recovering from physical, inventory, and economic losses by offering low-interest loans with repayment plans of up to 30 years.

The Hillsborough County BRC is located at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center (ECC), 2101 E. Palm Ave., Tampa, FL 33605. The BRC is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The center is closed on Sunday. Free parking is available across Palm Avenue.

For more information about the BRC, please contact the ECC at (813) 204-9267 or visit the website.

Free Food for Families

Free food will be available via drive-thru for FREE fresh fruits, veggies, meats, and more on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 8:30 am - 11:30 am (while supplies last).
JWB, 14155 58th St. N. Clearwater, FL

Disaster Survivor's Checklist

FEMA has constructed a Disaster Survivor's Checklist to help get your affairs in order.

• If you have insurance, file a claim.
• Apply to FEMA
• Schedule a FEMA inspection
• Read your FEMA decision letter
• Use your FEMA assistance for its intended purposes
• Save receipts and maintain good records

River Oaks Treatment Center Open and Accepting Patients after Hurricanes Milton and Helene

River Oaks Treatment Center has weathered both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton and remains fully operational. We know that this is a trying time for Floridians, and we are available 24/7 to help anyone seeking treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental disorders. We understand that extreme stress, such as that caused by severe weather events, can lead to increased drinking or substance use as a coping mechanism and make it harder for those in recovery to stay sober.

Located near Tampa in Riverview, River Oaks offers a full array of treatment services, including:

• Medical detox.
• Inpatient/residential rehab.
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP).
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP).
• Supportive housing for patients participating in our outpatient treatment programs.

River Oaks Treatment Center also provides a range of specialized treatment programs, including those for:

• The LGBTQ+ community.
• Veterans and first responders.
• Impaired professionals.
• Individuals struggling with emotional instability.

If you’ve been impacted by the storms and are also struggling with addiction, River Oaks is here for you. To learn how to get yourself or a loved one admitted into treatment, please call 640-227-5817 or visit riveroakstreatment.com.

WHEN APPLYING FOR FEMA ASSISTANCE IN MULTIPLE DISASTERS

Floridians who applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricanes Helene, Debby or previous storms must apply separately for assistance after Hurricane Milton.

When applying for FEMA assistance after multiple disasters:

• You will need to describe what damage occurred and on what date, to ensure federal disaster assistance from storms is not duplicated.
• Keep all receipts for expenses associated with each disaster, including:
  • Home repairs
  • Repairs to a septic system, water well or private road
  • Purchase of a generator or chainsaw
  • Replacement of personal property items such as appliances
  • Vehicle repairs or replacement
  • Insurance settlement or denial
• FEMA assistance will not cover losses already covered from a previous disaster but can help with new damage caused by Hurricane Milton.
• Eligible survivors affected by multiple hurricanes can receive Serious Needs Assistance and Displacement Assistance in multiple incidents.
• If you already created a Login.gov account, you may use that same account in accessing both applications.
• FEMA is reaching out to applicants who may have been affected by multiple storms to provide necessary support for their recovery. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. If you are concerned about verifying that FEMA is trying to reach you, call the helpline at 800-621-3362.

How to Apply
Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 any day. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

EMERGENCY BRIDGE LOAN PROGRAM

FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $50 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. Florida small business owners in need of assistance are encouraged to visit FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.

Businesses in the following counties, including sole proprietors, are eligible to apply: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Suwanee, Taylor, Union, and Volusia counties.

The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Milton. Interested applicants can apply now through December 4, 2024, or until all available funds are expended.

Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program. Loans of up to $100,000 are available for agriculture and aquaculture small businesses, and loans of up to $150,000 are available for citrus and cattle operations. Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer-term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources.

Loans made under this program are short-term, zero-interest, personal loans using State of Florida funds. They are not grants and loans must be repaid by the approved applicant. FloridaCommerce administers the Emergency Bridge Loan Program alongside its fiscal administrator, Florida First Capital Finance Corporation.

Visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL to learn more about the program, view the lending guidelines and required documentation, and complete an application by the December 4, 2024, deadline. Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES & DISTRIBUTIONS

Are you looking for ways to help survivors affected by Hurricane Milton? Feeding Tampa Bay is hosting volunteer opportunities.

They are also hosting two distributions today:

▪️ Hillsborough County (Causeway Center at 3624 Causeway Blvd.), 4 pm - 6 pm
▪️ Manatee County (Desoto Boys and Girls Club at 5236 30th St W), 4 pm - 6 pm

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD) is also a great place to find trusted organizations that are helping the various communities. Check out: nvoad.org

DEBRIS REMOVAL GUIDELINES

If Hurricane Milton caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it.

• Take photos before you begin cleaning up.
• Make a list of damaged or lost items & gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance & other assistance programs.

POWER OUTAGES

If Hurricane Milton knocked out your power, stay safe:

• Keep freezers and fridges closed.
• Switch off electronics to avoid damage from surges.
• Place generators outside, at least 20 ft. away from the house.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Learn More: ready.gov/power-outages

BUSINESS DAMAGE ASSESSMENT SURVEY

The State of Florida has opened the Business Damage Assessment Survey for Hurricane Milton. Please take a moment to complete the survey.

Completing the survey helps to ensure the appropriate services are available during recovery.

10/9/24 UPDATES

Hernando County: Mandatory Evacuations have been issued for all areas west of US 19, which includes evacuation zones A, B, and C. All residents living in coastal and low-lying areas, as well as manufactured homes county wide, are included.

Hillsborough County: Hillsborough County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for Evacuation Zones A and B, and for all mobile homes and manufactured housing throughout the county.

Manatee County: Evacuations of all persons in Level A, B, and C — and all residents or visitors in RVs or Mobile Homes — ahead of Hurricane Milton.

Pasco County: A mandatory evacuation was issued for Zone C in Pasco County. Life-threatening storm surge and hurricane force winds are expected to impact Pasco County later this week. The evacuation order applies to those who: live in Evacuation Zone A, B or C; live in a manufactured home, mobile home or RV anywhere in Pasco; live in a low-lying area or an area prone to flooding; live in a structure that historically has experienced flooding during heavy rainfall; are in an area ordered evacuated by local authorities due to life-safety hazards

Pinellas County: Pinellas County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for everyone in Zone A, B and C, and all mobile homes. Earlier the County announced evacuations for special needs residents and residential health care facilities in these zones.

Sarasota County: Sarasota County has extended its mandatory evacuation order to Level C. It now applies to anyone in Levels A, B, C, plus manufactured communities or a mobile or boat home.

The State of Florida is offering free shuttles to shelters. Reservations are not required. Times and locations can be found at FloridaDisaster.org/Updates. Call 800-729-3413 for more information.

Check your supplies for water, first aid/medications, toiletries, blankets, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, important documents, cleaning supplies, and cash.

TOP 10 TIPS FOR RECOVERY

1. Implement your disaster plan. Assess damage and consider if a backup location is needed.
2. Shift your team and leadership from preparedness to recovery.
3. Implement a communications strategy to ensure that the facts go directly to employees, suppliers, customers, and the media.
4. Encourage employees to take appropriate actions and communicate.
5. Document damage, file insurance claims, and track recovery.
6. Cultivate partnerships in the community with businesses, government, and nonprofits.
7. Provide employee support and assistance.
8. Connect with chambers of commerce, economic development, and other community support organizations.
9. Document lessons learned and update your plan.
10. Contact the Disaster Help Desk for support at 1-888-MY-BIZ-HELP (1-888-692-4943).

LATEST FEMA UPDATES

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

• Time is running out to prepare for Hurricane Milton.
• Follow the direction of your local officials.
• If you are told to evacuate by local authorities, do it.

Download the free FEMA App, available in English and Spanish, to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area. Find more hurricane preparedness information at Ready.gov and Listo.gov in Spanish. Stay informed and follow the direction of local officials.

Florida Division of Emergency Management Evacuation Resources

• Call 800-729-3413 for Evacuation Assistance
• Local Evacuation Plan/Orders
• Shelter Status
• Know Your Home, Know Your Zone
• Flood Safety
• Traffic

Disaster Recovery Centers Suspend Operations

In preparation for Hurricane Milton, all Disaster Recovery Centers for Hurricanes Debby and Helene have suspended operations temporarily. Stay tuned in coming days for opening times and locations. Remember, you do not need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance.

Federal Assistance for Debby and Helene Continues as FEMA Prepares for Milton

While FEMA and its federal partners prepare to support the State of Florida’s response to Hurricane Milton, the application process continues, and FEMA assistance is still flowing to disaster survivors from previous storms. To date, FEMA has approved $126.8 million in assistance to individuals and households in Florida for Hurricane Helene recovery. If you sustained damage or losses from Hurricane Helene or Debby, you may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-related expenses.

For Hurricane Helene, homeowners and renters in seven additional Florida counties may now apply for FEMA assistance for damage and losses: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam and Union. These counties join Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties in eligibility for Hurricane Helene.

• Quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices.
• Or call the FEMA helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.

Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For Hurricane Debby, the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance has been extended to Nov. 12, 2024. Application deadline for Hurricane Helene is Nov. 27, 2024.

Stay Informed and Help Stop Rumors in Florida

FEMA has created a Rumor Control page specific to Hurricane Helene to help keep survivors safe and aware of rumors and scams. Please help us amplify official information from trusted sources and discourage others from sharing information from unverified sources: Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. For Spanish: Huracán Helene: Respuestas a rumores y preguntas frecuentes | FEMA.gov.

Additional Resources

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Helene. org.
• Hope Florida: Get help, give help

• CDC Mold Cleanup Information
• Florida Division of Emergency Management Updates

HURRICANE HELENE

FloridaCommerce has partnered with the Florida Small Business Development Center Network and CareerSource Florida to bring One-Stop Business Resource Sites to 17 counties impacted by Hurricane Helene. Site will be open October 5 - October 6 from 10 am - 3 pm in Hillsborough County, Hernando County, and Pinellas County. Businesses and employees can receive in-person assistance with Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loans, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, and other business and employee resources.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

If you sustained damage or losses from Hurricane Helene, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-related expenses.

Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties can apply to FEMA for assistance.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. Application deadline for Hurricane Helene is Nov. 27, 2024.

If You Applied for FEMA Assistance Previously

If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Ian, Debby, Idalia or previous storms, you must apply separately for assistance after Hurricane Helene. You will need to describe what damage occurred and on what date, to ensure federal disaster assistance from two storms is not duplicated. If you were affected by both Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene, please provide the date of your most recent damage.

FEMA Specialists in Communities After Hurricane Helene

Disaster Survivor Assistance crews are in Florida neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene.DSA specialist wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. They go door to door in affected neighborhoods to help people apply for federal assistance, check the status of an application, identify potential needs and make connections with organizations that can provide resources. DSA crews never ask for, or accept, money.

Be Alert to Fraud After Hurricane Helene

FEMA personnel working in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene carry official photo identification. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. Don't give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff's department or contact Florida’s Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report (myfloridalegal.com).

What Kind of Help Can FEMA Provide?

FEMA assistance does not replace insurance and cannot restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. But FEMA may be able to provide help for uninsured or underinsured costs. File your insurance claim, then apply to FEMA. FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.

Disaster Recovery Centers

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center to meet with specialists from FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Centers that were previously open for people affected by Hurricane Debby are reopening and new centers are opening in communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Any center can help with either storm.

• Baker County: Fire Station 20, 14496 FL-121, Macclenny, FL 32063 (Open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday)
• Columbia County: Lake City Reporter, 180 E. Duval St., Lake City, FL 32055 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Hillsborough County: Hillsborough Community College - The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview, FL 33578 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Sunday)
• Manatee County: Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Pkwy., Bradenton, FL 34211 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday)
• Sarasota County: Sarasota Christian Church, 2923 Ashton Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday)
• Suwannee County: Hale Park, 215 Duval St. NE, Live Oak, FL 32064 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday Saturday)

Be Safe When Cleaning Up

Follow the direction of local authorities as you clean up. Be aware of safety concerns and separate debris for collection as instructed by local officials. Before cleaning up, make sure to document any property damage with photos and receipts.  Use generators only outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.

• Low-Interest Disaster Loans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at SBA.gov/disaster. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955.

SBA Business Recovery Centers are operating at Rocky Bluff Library, 675 US 301 in Ellenton and Sarasota Christian Church, 2923 Ashton Rd. in Sarasota.

• Additional Resources

• Hope Florida: Get help, give help
• Florida Division of Emergency Management Updates: org/disaster-updates/storm-updates/
• State Assistance Information Line: Call 800-342-3557 for resources after Hurricane Helene
• Disaster Legal Hotline: 833-514-2940
• 2-1-1: Call for essential services
• Red Cross: 800-Red Cross (800-733-2767)
• Crisis Cleanup: 844-965-1386

Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Helene

Florida Commerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Helene. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Helene recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses.

Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting FloridaDisaster.biz and selecting “Hurricane Helene” from the dropdown menu. If you need additional assistance with your business, please call the private sector hotline at 850-815-4925, open daily, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

Disaster Help Desk For Business

The US Chamber’s Disaster Help Desk provides one-on-one expert assistance to small business owners before, during, and after a disaster strikes. The Disaster Help Desk team is connected to a vast network of disaster-assistance providers, including the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA), and local/regional emergency management associations. Since 2007, the Disaster Help Desk team has advised thousands of small businesses nationwide. Contact at 1-888-MY-BIZ-HELP or complete the form at the link below.

https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/solutions/disaster-response-and-resiliency/disaster-help-desk-for-business

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY UPDATES

During a disaster, safety is the main concern. Hillsborough County is urging businesses to prepare for the approaching storm:

• Review Business Continuity Plans to ensure the safety of employees and property.
• Confirm that all employees are aware of their hurricane preparedness plan and their individual responsibilities.
• Monitor relevant emergency management news for weather and safety updates.
• Document property - photographs and inventory lists should be compiled prior to the storm. These can be used as insurance evidence for damage assessments after the storm.

If an evacuation is ordered, businesses owners should secure their businesses and follow instructions by local emergency management on evacuation orders. Remember, if your local emergency management officials order an evacuation and you decide to remain in your business, emergency responders will not be able to respond to you during the disaster. You and your employees will be on your own until the storm passes and first responders are able to secure the area.

Get Connected. Stay Alert.
For more information on Hillsborough County’s response to Tropical Storm Helene, visit HCFL.gov/StaySafe and sign up for the HCFL Alert system. Additionally, you can follow Hillsborough County on social media at Facebook, X, and Neighbors for updates.

Residents without digital access are encouraged to call (813) 272-5900, the County's main information line.

PINELLAS COUNTY UPDATES

Latest storm/incident developments

• The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners declared a State of Local Emergency for Potential Tropical Cyclone 9, which is expected to become a major hurricane. Effective for seven days, the declaration gives County Administrator Barry A. Burton authority to quickly approve expenditures and issue special orders to ensure public safety.
• A Hurricane Watch, Storm Surge Watch and Flood Watch are in effect for Pinellas County. Significant and possibly life-threatening hurricane, storm surge flooding and flash flood conditions are possible in Pinellas County. The current forecast calls for higher storm surge than Tampa Bay has experienced in recent history, with higher storm surge impacting the county for a longer time period than during Hurricane Idalia. The biggest impacts are currently expected throughout the day on Thursday.
• No evacuations have been ordered as of 10:30 a.m. today, but residents are urged to continue monitoring the storm at disaster.pinellas.gov and through local news sources.
  Pinellas County response/action
• The County Information Center (CIC) is open 24 hours for preparedness questions. Call (727) 464-4333. Residents who are deaf or hard of hearing can contact the CIC online chat at bit.ly/PinellasChat.
• Pinellas County Public Works is checking hot spots to clear vegetation or debris that could impede stormwater drainage.
• The County is drawing down the water level at Taylor Lake in Largo, and the Southwest Water Management District is drawing down Lake Tarpon in Palm Harbor.
• The campground at Fort De Soto is closed today until further notice.
• Flood gauges at Brooker Creek and other locations are being monitored.
• Road closure information will be pushed to the Waze app for real-time updates.
  
• Sandbag locations & information
  
• John Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road S., Palm Harbor, Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 7 a.m. to noon. Note: Chesnut Park will otherwise be closed to the public during sandbag operation hours.
• Pinellas and City of Clearwater: Joe DiMaggio Sports Complex, 2450 Drew Street, Clearwater; Tuesday sunrise to sunset and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon. Unincorporated County and City of Clearwater residents only.
• Sandbags are available while supplies last; limit of 10 per vehicle. Residents are encouraged to bring a shovel.
• Municipal residents can check with their city/town directly for the latest sandbag site information.
• Sandbags are only recommended for residents who may experience flooding less than 15 inches from rain or tides. Sandbags won’t stop water completely, but they can reduce the amount of water entering your home. They will NOT protect against waves or storm surge.

Advice & Information for Residents

• Review and finalize personal preparedness plans.
• Monitor local news media, National Weather Service, disaster.pinellas.gov, Facebook @PinellasGov and Twitter @PinellasGov.
• Register for emergency alerts at pinellas.gov/alert-pinellas and download the Ready Pinellas app in the App Store or Google Play store for real-time storm updates.

Hurricane Debby

The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber is closely monitoring the progression Hurricane Debby.

The health and safety of our members and community are a top priority for the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber.  For urgent matters please contact info@tampabaylgbtchamber.org

We will continue to be a trusted source of information pertaining to your business and have compiled some resources to assist you, your family, and your business through this hurricane season. We are a member of the Emergency Support Function 18 team and will keep you informed as things evolve.

Our goal is to minimize the impact on our community by, below are some additional resources for your reference.

FEMA Specialists Helping Floridians Apply for Assistance After Hurricane Debby

Sept. 23, 2024

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews continue to work in Florida neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Debby.

The crews have worked in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties. Now they are beginning work in Baker, Citrus, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Baker County
A mobile Disaster Recovery Center opens today in Baker County to provide one-on-one help to those affected by Hurricane Debby.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
If you sustained damage or losses from Hurricane Debby, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.

Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can apply to FEMA in several ways:

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline to apply is Oct. 9, 2024.

To date, FEMA has approved $34.8 million in assistance to households.

Disaster Recovery Centers

• Alachua County: Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 (Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday)
• Baker County: Baker County Fairgrounds, 5567 Lauramore Road, Macclenny, FL 32063 (Open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday)
• Columbia County: 180 E. Duval St, Lake City, FL 32055 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Dixie County: Old School Board Building, 841 SE Hwy 349, Old Town, FL 32680 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Fire Station #2, 460 NW County Road 138, Branford, FL 32008 (Open 9 a.m.- 7p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Courthouse Annex, 435 W Walnut St., Monticello, FL 32344 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Circle, Mayo, FL 32066 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Madison County: Madison County, The Bridge Church, 1135 US East 90, Madison, FL 32340 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Manatee County: Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34211 (9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Sarasota County: Sarasota Christian Church, 2923 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231 (9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Suwannee County: Hale Park, 215 Duval St. NE, Live Oak, FL 32064 (Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday)
• Taylor County: Loughridge Park, 1100 W. Hampton Springs Ave, Perry, FL 32347 (Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday- Friday)
  • This center will close permanently at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20.

Understanding Your FEMA Letter
If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Debby you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email. The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

Be Alert to Fraud After Hurricane Debby
FEMA personnel working in areas impacted by Hurricane Debby carry official photo identification. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free. Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. Don't give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff's department or contact Florida’s Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report (myfloridalegal.com).

Low-Interest Disaster Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at SBA.gov/disaster. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955.

The deadline to apply for property damage is Oct. 9, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is May 12, 2025.

The SBA has opened three Business Recovery Centers to meet the needs of businesses that were affected by Hurricane Debby. Locations: Rocky Bluff Library, 6750 US-301, Ellenton, and Yankeetown Town Hall, 6241 Harmony Lane, Yankeetown, and Sarasota Christian Church, 2923 Ashton Rd., Sarasota. SBA has approved $18.8 million in disaster loans to date.

Additional Resources

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to Florida businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane. Eligible Floridians may submit a claim at FloridaJobs.org.
• Tips for Mold Cleanup
• American Red Cross: Call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit Hurricane Debby (arcgis.com).
• Crisis Counseling: Call the Substance and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 800-985-5990; for Spanish, press "2").
• Disaster Legal Services: Call 833-514-2940 Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The State of Florida has opened the Business Damage Assessment Survey for Hurricane Debby.  Please take a moment to complete the survey.  Completion of the survey by as many business owners as possible helps to ensure the proper services will be available for recovery efforts.

BUSINESS DAMAGE ASSESSMENT SURVEY

Businesses across Hillsborough County that were impacted by Hurricane Debby can now apply to the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.

The program, which is administered by the Florida Department of Commerce, provides short-term, zero-interest working capital loans that are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims or other resources.

SMALL BUSINESS EMERGENCY BRIDGE LOANS

Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County disaster recovery specialists are available to provide confidential, no-cost consulting to help affected businesses prepare disaster loan applications and with other post-disaster challenges. Florida SBDC disaster specialists work alongside SBA business loan specialists to provide information about resources available and assist businesses in completing state and federal disaster loan applications.

The Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County can be reached at HCFL.Gov/FSBDC or (813) 204-9267, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FLORIDA SBCD AT HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RESOURCES