We help disaster survivors in the Tampa Bay area with disaster-related legal and social need problems such as insurance denials, contractor issues, consumer and debt problems, housing issues, advance directives, and other legal and social need matters.

Latest Updates

The latest news and updates on hurricanes and disasters affecting the Tampa Bay area: Hurricane Ian.

FEMA

FEMA has opened applications for Individual Assistance for those impacted by hurricane Ian. Individual Assistance can include funds for temporary housing, funds to repair your home, and funds for other uninsured or under-insured disaster-caused expenses and needs. Visit the FEMA website for a complete list of eligible counties.

You can apply in the following ways:

• Toll-Free Hotline: (800) 621-3362 (available from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. EST, 7 days a week, multiple language options)
• If Hearing or Speech Impaired: (800) 462-7585
• If 711 or Video Relay Service: (800) 621-3362
• DisasterAssistance.gov
• FEMA Mobile App
• In Person at the Disaster Recovery Centers

FEMA Appeals

If you received a FEMA decision that you do not agree with, you are entitled to an appeal to have FEMA review your file again. This will give you an opportunity to provide new or additional information not previously submitted that may change the decision. An appeal must be made in writing, sent by mail or fax, and sent within 60 days of receipt of the FEMA letter. Appeals can be faxed to (800) 827-8112 or uploaded to your FEMA account at DisasterAssistance.gov.

Also see Figuring Out FEMA, a guide to help you understand how to apply to FEMA, how it works, and how to appeal a FEMA decision.

Beware of Fraud

In the wake of a disaster, it is common for scam artists and criminals to try to take advantage of disaster survivors. Be careful with whom you share personal information and report any suspicious activity. Visit the FEMA website for more information on disaster fraud and scams.

Report unlicensed activity by contacting the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) at (866) 532-1440 or on the DBPR website.

You may also report price gouging at (866) 966-7226 or MyFloridaLegal.com.

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC)

Disaster Recovery Centers are coordinated efforts with FEMA, local government, and disaster relief groups to provide a place for disaster survivors to access various resources, apply for assistance, and receive information on disaster recovery. To determine if a DRC is open in your area, please visit the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Locator website or call (800) 631-6362.

SNAP Benefits

Are you looking to apply for food assistance, seek help for lost food because of the hurricane, or looking for information on food assistance updates? Visit the Florida DCF website for the latest updates on SNAP/D-SNAP benefits and to apply for food assistance/food replacement.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)

If you lost your job or had your self-employment interrupted because of the hurricane, you may be eligible for DUA. To file a claim, go to FloridaJobs.org and select "File a Claim", visit a local CareerSource Career Center, or call (800) 385-3920.

Disaster Legal Services Hotline

A free legal help hotline is now available for Hurricane Ian survivors in the affected counties: Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, Sarasota, Seminole, and Volusia.

The hotline is available to connect survivors to free legal services in qualifying counties who cannot afford an attorney. Survivors can call (866) 550-2929.