Florida Keys Disaster Assistance: How To Apply

KEY WEST, FL — As Florida Keys residents struggle to pick up their lives after Hurricane Irma destroyed so much of island life, the federal government is offering disaster aid for those who need it.

"People will be coming back to devastation," said Monroe County Mayor George Neugent. "We are here for you. We are working for you." (For more hurricane updates and news from your local community, sign up for real-time news alerts and morning newsletters; find your local Florida Patch here. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app.)

Monroe County officials explained on Facebook that there are three ways to apply for aid:

1. Call 1-800-621-3362
2. Go to DisasterAssistance.gov
3. Visit the Old Town Key West Fire Station #2 (616 Simonton Street

You will need to have the following information ready:

• Social Security number (one per household)
• Address of damaged residence
• Description of damage
• Insurance coverage information
• Phone number
• Mailing address
• Bank account and routing numbers

Renters and homeowners alike can apply for assistance, officials said, and funds can be provided for transitional housing.

Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images