Hurricane Ian Resources: Florida State and Federal Recovery Assistance

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As Floridians recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, FEMA is continuing collaborations with local, state, and federal partners to repair infrastructure and support those affected. If you need assistance jumpstarting your recovery, consider the following resources.

Safety Considerations

Florida residents and visitors should note the following considerations:

Avoid floodwaters: Flooded areas may contain hazards such as wastes and contaminants. Floodwaters with downed power lines may be electrically charged.
Use generators with caution: In case of a power outage, use generators sparingly, especially if in contact with water. Only use outdoor generators away from open doors and windows.
Keep off the roads: Unless necessary, avoid major roads, as emergency personnel may still be assisting people in flooded areas.
Debunk rumors and scams: When receiving information, corroborate data through trusted sources and discourage others from sharing anything unverified.
Do not try to help by yourself: If you want to volunteer, do not self-deploy. Instead, register with Volunteer Florida for opportunities. These groups can provide the appropriate information and equipment you need to help others.

Financial Aid

SBA Disaster Loan: Homeowners and small business owners can apply for a low-interest loan with the Small Business Administration.
Hurricane Ian tax relief from the IRS: Eligible taxpayers can apply for hurricane-related tax relief.
NFIP Flood Insurance: Anyone living in NFIP communities can apply for flood insurance through NFIP Direct.

Children And Medically Dependent

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: Families separated from their children can call 800-THE-LOST for immediate assistance.
Florida Disaster: Affected individuals who are medically dependent can receive transport services and electricity to operate medical equipment and machinery.
Disaster Distress Helpline: Survivors needing emotional support can contact the 24/7 crisis hotline at 1-800-985-5990. Hard-of-hearing individuals can get video support via ASL Now.

Military And Veteran Aid

Veterans Crisis Line: Distressed veterans can call 988 and then press 1. Other ways to contact the 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line are to text 838255 or chat online.
VA Whole Health Services: Recovering veterans can access valuable resources through the VA self-care blog series.
VA Vet Center: Veterans looking for other military members can connect via the VA Vet Center.

Sheltering Assistance

Florida Disaster Shelter Status: Florida residents who need to evacuate can consult Florida Disaster for open shelters and other shelter-related assistance.
Shelter in Place Survey: Families evacuating can register members, including pets, on ARCGIS to get help from local responders.
FEMA Evac Hotels: Those eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance can stay in specific lodging providers and participating hotels.

Immigration

Immigrant enforcement activities by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will temporarily halt in affected areas, such as:

Evacuation sites
Evacuation routes
Emergency supplies distribution sites
Registration sites for disaster relief

Communications And Weather Updates

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Get real-time forecast updates, evacuation instructions, shelter information, and other weather-related resources.
National Weather Service: Get hurricane forecasts, wind speeds, rainfall predictions, and other relevant information.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC): Get tips on communicating with authorities and reaching separated family members.
FLSERT: Get real-time updates via the State’s Emergency Response Team.

Federal Resources

General Services Administration: Get an updated list of federal building closures in case of storm impact.
The Forest Service: Apply for the Casualty Assistance Program for disaster-caused injuries and illnesses.

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Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.