Assistance For Disaster Victims

If you need assistance, FEMA, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other government agencies offer initial assistance to residents and business owners impacted by natural disasters.

You may apply for FEMA assistance by:Visiting disasterassistance.gov
Calling 800-621-3362
Using the FEMA app

You may apply for SBA assistance by:Using the MySBA Loan Portal at lending.sba.gov
Calling 800-659-2955
Emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has also announced Operation Blue Roof, a no-cost service to provide and install industrial-strength sheeting to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs. Hurricane-impacted residents in DeSoto, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Okeechobee and Polk counties can now apply through Tuesday, November 5. You may apply by:Visiting blueroof.gov and filling out this sign-up form
Calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258)
Visiting a Right of Entry (ROE) collection center in affected area

It is important to be on high alert for bad actors taking advantage of Helene and Milton. Always ask FEMA and other agency staff to show you a photo ID badge. Never agree to pay a fee for disaster assistance or filling out applications. If an inspector comes to your home and you haven't filed a FEMA or other relief application, your information may have been used without your knowledge. Call the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 to report scam or other fraud-related incidents.

-Courtesy of C. Scott Franklin

Member of Congress, Florida District 18