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Dear Neighbor,
While our area was spared the worst impact of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, there are still many in our community that have experienced significant loss and are still suffering. Thousands remain without power and water. It is important to note that Helene and Milton were two very different hurricanes. Helene’s storm surge in coastal parts of our community resulted in catastrophic loss. Sadly, many of those residents are still waiting for help. If you are a victim of hurricane Helene, have filed a FEMA claim more than ten days ago and are still waiting for assistance, please contact my office at 727-232-2921 so we can begin a Congressional inquiry for you. Hurricane Milton had significant wind damage and freshwater flooding that has been and continues to be a significant problem. The damage from Milton was not limited to coastal areas. Constituents throughout all three counties were impacted. In fact, flood levels along the rivers in our district are still rising as a result of Hurricane Milton. They are not expected to crest until today. Voluntary evacuation orders have been issued along the rivers and water rescues are ongoing. It is important to heed the advice of local emergency officials and to stay safe. On Friday, the Governor requested an expedited disaster declaration for many counties in Florida, including individual and public assistance for Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. The delegation sent a bipartisan letter to the President asking for immediate approval, which was granted.
I’ve been in touch with President Biden, FEMA, state, and local officials prior to, during and since both hurricanes. I told the President that FEMA’s response to hurricane victims has to be more timely. And, we need to make sure local governments have the flexibility they need to amp up debris removal and receive reimbursement for those efforts. I also let the President know that I support Congress returning to Washington to vote on a stand alone package to provide more funding for FEMA and I’ve communicated this with the Speaker. We have an obligation to make sure Americans who are suffering from these tragedies have the support they need to fully recover.
I am incredibly grateful to the linemen who have worked around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible and to the incredible first responders who are working hard to keep our community safe!
While it has been a tough few weeks, we’ve seen the very best of humanity emerge throughout this crisis; neighbors helping neighbors. If we continue to support one another I am confident we will emerge stronger than ever. Please be assured that I will continue fighting for you and for our community. Below, please find some additional updated information available to help hurricane victims.
Hurricane Relief Recovery Resources
For Individual Families:
- If you experienced damage during Helene or Milton, you can apply for FEMA assistance.
- If you do not receive an appointment for FEMA to assess your damage and provide relief within 10 days, you can contact my office at 727-232-2921 and my casework team will open a congressional inquiry on your behalf.
- Learn more about the types of FEMA assistance available, by clicking here.
- The state is operating a hotline for individuals whose homes are uninhabitable to request a travel trailer on their property. You can start the process by calling 1-833-432-4673.
For Small Businesses:
- The Small Business Administration provides multiple resources for small businesses that are impacted by a federal disaster. To apply, visit www.sba.gov/disaster
- The state of Florida also offers small business owners the opportunity to participate in the Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Learn more by clicking here.
Debris Collection:
Each county is continuing its work to collect debris.
For an update from Pasco County, click here.
For an update from Hernando County, click here.
For an update from Citrus County, click here.
Also, you can read more details about hurricane relief efforts by accessing my Hurricane Relief Resource Guide.
While most of my efforts have been focused on hurricane preparation and response, I did have time between the two hurricanes to attend a couple community events. Continue reading to learn more.
It was a privilege to attend this year’s Big Blue BBQ in Pasco. Our first responders have done an incredible job preparing and responding to the hurricane. It was a great way for our community to support these men and women and to remind them that we will always Back the Blue!
It was also an honor to meet 98-year old WWII Veteran, Larry, and his son at Oak Hill Senior Center recently. There are not too many of these heroes left from the Greatest Generation and I always appreciate the chance to thank them for their courage.
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