COMMUNITY RESOURCES
FEMA REGISTRATION:
• 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• www.disasterassistance.gov• Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Dr., Largo FL 33771
DISASTER CLEANUP GUIDANCE:
• https://www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/safety/index.html
• https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/disaster-cleanup.html
DISASTER DISTRESS HOTLINE:
• Call: 800-985-5990
• Text: TalkWithUs to 66746
FREE DISASTER LEGAL HELP
• Call (833) 514-2940 for free legal advice and referrals. This helpline assists residents living in Florida affected by disasters.
COOLING/COMFORT STATIONS
Cooling/Comfort Stations are now operating in each neighborhood. These stations will be operational daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents can use these areas to cool down, shower, and charge devices. The Treasure Island Community Park and Sunset Beach locations will have laundry capabilities.
Locations:
• Treasure Island Community Park/Center | 106th Avenue and Park Place
• Sunset Beach | Ring Billed Gull Lot | 8198 W. Gulf Blvd.
• Treasure Bay | 10315 Paradise Blvd.
• Rosselli Park | 12299 Capri Circle South
CRISIS CLEANUP ASSISTANCE
Crisis Cleanup has activated the Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: (844) 965-1386. This is for people who need help cleaning up damage from the Hurricane Helene and connects people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able assist with jobs such as muck-outs (cleaning up), trees, tarp, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.
FEMA INSPECTING HOMES AFTER HURRICANE HELENE
After Floridians apply for FEMA assistance following Hurricane Helene, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable. Inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is part of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. Inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or recorded. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free.
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).
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.
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 and are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. For more information: FloridaJobs.org.
• Hope Florida: Get help, give help
• Florida Division of Emergency Management Updates: floridadisaster.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)
Updates will continue at MyTreasureIsland.com/DisasterAssistance
