x
Breaking News
More () »

FEMA assistance available for Tampa Bay residents affected by Hurricane Helene

President Joe Biden has approved FEMA assistance for seventeen counties affected by the storm.
Credit: AP Photo/Mike Carlson
Members of the St. Petersburg Fire Rescue drive through the floodwaters from Hurricane Helene in the Shore Acres neighborhood.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — President Joe Biden has approved federal disaster assistance for seventeen counties affected by Hurricane Helene, the City of Tampa said in a news release.

That assistance will include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help people and business owners recover from the storm.

The following counties are receiving federal assistance:

  • Charlotte
  • Citrus
  • Dixie
  • Franklin
  • Hernando
  • Hillsborough
  • Jefferson
  • Lafayette
  • Lee
  • Levy
  • Madison
  • Manatee
  • Pasco
  • Pinellas
  • Sarasota
  • Taylor 
  • Wakulla

In addition, as Tampa residents look for contractors to assist with damages, Mayor Jane Castor reminded them that fraud and scams are common.

"Following a momentous storm like Hurricane Helene, qualified contractors are in high demand, so I want residents to be on the lookout for scammers who prey on Floridians in need of expert service," Mayor Castor said.

Those looking to apply for assistance can do so here or call 1-800-621-3362.

For more local resources, click here.

Before You Leave, Check This Out