With the impending arrival of Hurricane Helene over Florida, it is necessary to focus on various emergency resources that are available with it for the residents. In this backdrop, a discussion on various contingency schemes, eligibility for the same, and modes of application that would be offered to the victims of the hurricane is presented.
Impact of Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene promises to bring along terrible weather as characterized by heavy rainfall, high winds, and life-threatening storm surges. Because of the adverse weather conditions, the National Weather Service issued warnings throughout counties along the coastline of Florida because it has left potential flooding and power outages in its wake. To this end, federal and state agencies have mobilized resources for anyone requiring support.
Assistance programs in the U.S
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Disaster assistance has been declared available by FEMA due to the effects of Hurricane Helene in Florida. In this regard, federal funding is also available on emergency protective measures, as well as for recovery efforts. Assistance is provided to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.
Eligibility requirements for the FEMA Disaster Assistance:
- The residents must be living in the areas that have been designated as disaster areas by FEMA.
- Applicants must show their residency and damages due to the hurricane.
How to apply to FEMA Disaster Assistance:
To apply go to FEMA website, or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Applications can be submitted through your FEMA mobile app, too.
Florida Disaster Recovery Programs
The Florida Division of Emergency Management has various recovery programs that permit individuals and families to rebuild after disasters. Some recoveries include financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
Eligibility requirements for the Florida Disaster Recovery Programs:
- Applicants must be residents of Florida.
- Proof of income and proof of residency may be required.
- Damages must be directly related to Hurricane Helene.
How to apply to the Florida Disaster Recovery Programs:
Applications must be made through the Florida Disaster website or through local emergency management offices.
Army Emergency Relief Grants
Army Emergency Relief has approved disaster assistance grants for military members who have been affected by Hurricane Helene. The following individuals are eligible for assistance: active-duty soldiers, retired soldiers, and their eligible family members.
Eligibility requirements for the Army Emergency Relief Grants:
- Active-duty soldiers and their family members.
- Retired soldiers who were medically retired or retired due to longevity
- Surviving spouses and children of active-duty or retired soldiers that died.
How To apply for the Army Emergency Relief Grants:
For more information or to request any aid that may be available, contact your local office of the American Emergency Relief, or visit them online at
American Red Cross Services
The American Red Cross is mobilizing and positioning resources for rapid response to provide immediate support to those displaced due to Hurricane Helene. This will include a safe place to stay, food to eat, emergency relief supplies, and financial assistance.
Eligibility requirements for the American RedCross Services
- Available to all affected by the hurricane regardless of race, ethnicity, or citizenship status.
- Identification is not required, but service recipient’s must give their names and last known address
How to obtain the American RedCross Services:
To find a Red Cross shelter in your vicinity, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767)
For specific sites of shelters, listen to local news outlets, weather radio, or check the social media pages of the American Red Cross chapter, updates will occur throughout continually.
Other resources
- Local Emergency Management Office: Residents are advised to contact their local emergency management offices regarding available resources in their area. This agency would further educate on specific evacuation routes, shelter sites, and local assistance programs related to Hurricane Helene.
