FEMA Opens Pasco County Disaster Recovery Center

NEW PORT RICHEY, FL — Pasco County dodged a major bullet when Hurricane Hermine passed by the area on its way to the Panhandle in early September. That doesn’t mean, however, the Category 1 storm didn’t leave damage in her wake.

To help residents of Pasco County impacted by Hurricane Hermine, FEMA has opened a disaster recovery center. Located at the Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter, 11611 Denton Ave., in Hudson, center staff members are available to assist residents and business owners in filling out forms to register for federal recovery assistance.

“Disaster Recovery Centers serve as one-stop shops for eligible storm survivors seeking one-on-one help,” FEMA explained in a media release announcing the center’s opening. “Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and various state agencies will be at the center to answer questions.”

Disaster assistance may include such things as grants to help homeowners and renters pay for temporary housing. Money to assist with essential home repairs, personal property replacement and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance may be available.

SBA also offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses, homeowners, renters and nonprofit organizations.

Those who wish to apply, are asked to bring the following documents:

• Proof if ID and residency
• Proof of homeownership, if applicable
• Insurance coverage information, if applicable
• Photos and documentation of damages, if applicable

The Pasco center will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It will close on Friday, Nov. 11.

Residents who wish to register online may do so at https://www.disasterassistance.gov. Telephone registration is also available at 1-800-621-3362.

For more information on Florida disaster recovery, visit FEMA online.

Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service