FLORIDA (352today.com) – With the deadline of October 9, 2024, coming up quickly, Floridians who were affected by Hurricane Debby still have time to apply for federal help.

Recent reports show that FEMA has given out $25.4 million in grants to 7,160 households affected by the disaster. The U.S. Small Business Administration has also offered $14.6 million in disaster loans, while the National Flood Insurance Program has paid out $26.4 million. These funds are intended to help people and communities recover from the damage caused by Hurricane Debby.

FEMA specialists are visiting homes in affected areas to help residents apply for assistance. They have reached more than 35,000 homes and 2,500 public places. Many people are also visiting Disaster Recovery Centers, with over 3,300 visits noted, showing a strong need for help and advice during recovery.

If you live in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee, or Taylor County, and you’ve experienced losses from Hurricane Debby, you may qualify for FEMA financial help. This assistance can cover serious needs, home repairs, personal property losses, and other disaster costs that insurance might not pay for.

To speed up the application process, you can use online sites like DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA App on your phone. They can also call the toll-free number 800-621-3362, which is available every day and offers language help for different communities. Those using relay services should give their specific service number when reaching out to FEMA for better communication.

North Central Florida Disaster Recovery Centers include:

  • Gilchrist County Fire Station #2, 460 NW CR 138 in Branford
  • Levy County Government Complex, 310 School St. in Bronson
  • Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St. in Gainesville
  • Lake City Reporter Office, 180 E. Duval St. in Lake City
  • Dixie Old Town Education Center, 841 SE 349 in Old Town