|
Dear Neighbor,
As our community recovers from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, I want to ensure all my constituents have access to the resources and support you need. I’ll continue working with state, local and other federal leaders to help achieve this goal. As I've traveled throughout the district to assess damage alongside each of our three Sheriffs, I've been impressed by the professionalism of our first responders, emergency management leaders, and power crews who have been working around the clock to keep our residents safe and restore power.
 
However, some of the images I saw from homes and businesses on the coast and near rivers are truly devastating. One of the constituents I spoke with, Kevin McMahon, explained his ordeal during Hurricane Helene, the damage sustained and now the difficulty he is facing cleaning up. These neighbors are hurting and need our full support. It will take some time for these families and small business owners to fully recover, but I know we will all do everything we can to help.
Below, I've provided some important information about applying for federal and state assistance. Please know that I am working with my colleagues in Congress and leaders at federal and state agencies to ensure all Floridians have the necessary federal resources needed to rebuild and fully recover from this disaster. As always, you may call my office if you have additional questions or need more support. My team is ready and willing to support you however possible and can be reached at 727-232-2921 or through my website. We are here to help, and we look forward to serving you during this difficult time.
Quick Hurricane Relief Reference Guide
FEMA is the primary federal agency that provides disaster relief. As of today, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties have been approved for Individual Assistance from FEMA. The portal is now open for individuals impacted by Helene to request help. You can also call FEMA to apply 1-800-621-3362. It is important to document any property damage with photos and to contact your insurance company for assistance and next steps. Please also keep any repair receipts as these are required by FEMA.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) also offers valuable resources for business owners, homeowners and individuals impacted by a hurricane. The SBA Disaster Assistance Center Phone number is 1-800- 659-2955 and their website is here.
Constituents having problems reaching a federal agency for help are encouraged to contact my office at 727-232-2921. My team is available to help with individual casework and will reach out to our agency liaisons on your behalf. I am also in the process of organizing a tele-townhall later this week with officials from SBA, FEMA and the state. I'll post details on my social media platforms as soon as they are confirmed.
Other Tips
- Be aware of safety concerns and separate debris for collection as instructed by local officials.
- Constituents may also call 2-1-1 to potentially be connected with voluntary organizations and resources in their area.
- A Crisis Cleanup Hotline has also been set up to help constituents with muck outs, tree removal, tarping, and debris. Constituents can visit crisiscleanup.org or call (844) 965-1386 for assistance.
- The Florida Division of Emergency Management, State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) can be reached at 1-800-342-3557 or website
- American Red Cross Phone number is 1-800-733-2767 and here is their website.
- Volunteer Information can be found here
- Other State Resources can be found here.
The Florida Attorney General's office is taking complaints regarding price gouging, fraudulent charities, and home repair scams. Consumers can call 1- 866-966-7226 or visit her website to file a complaint.
Please continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf over the last week.
Getting things Done: My Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act passed the House and Senate last week. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes funding for critical research and awareness efforts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the causes, prevention, and development of better treatments for patients suffering with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD). As a co-founder of the Congenital Heart Caucus, I’ve become familiar with the struggles that patients with CHD and their families face. Our legislation will bring us one step closer to enhancing better treatment options and improving outcomes for all patients suffering with this condition. We’ve seen that this program yields positive results, and I believe when it is signed into law, it will help future generations live longer, healthier lives.
I’m also proud to help lead the charge in offering hope to families coping with a rare disease by passing two additional health priorities out of the House last week. I urge my Senate colleagues to move swiftly to advance these important measures.
Additionally, today is Gold Star Mothers and Families Day, a time to remember, honor, and celebrate the memory of the heroes who lost their lives defending our democracy. May their memories be eternal, and may we all support the Gold Star Families who have sacrificed so much for our country!
|
