FEMA Teams Visit Devastated Communities in Palm Beach County
THE ACREAGE — Team members with FEMA knocked on Franklin Ashurst’s door, one of their many stops Tuesday as they walked door to door in communities devastated by tornadoes.
Regional Effort
These FEMA teams plan to visit communities across Palm Beach County as well as set up multi-agency resource centers to help hard-hit neighborhoods, including Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, the Acreage, Palm Beach Gardens, and Jupiter Farms.
The damage resulted from an unusual outbreak of strong tornadoes that tore through parts of Florida last week as Hurricane Milton made landfall on the state’s west coast.
Applying for Aid
For people who believe they may qualify for FEMA aid, applications may be done through www.disasterassistance.gov, through a toll-free registration hotline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or by downloading the FEMA app.
Assessing the Damage
County, state, and federal officials have been stepping in to help people put the pieces of their lives together after Hurricane Milton.
As of Tuesday afternoon, according to the county’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department, the following were among the properties affected, categorized by the extent of damage:
- Five homes in unincorporated parts of Palm Beach County saw “major” damage, meaning they require extensive repairs and won’t be livable for a long time.
- There were 18 homes with “minor” damage, meaning some repairs will be needed on the structure to make them habitable again.
- There were 58 homes listed as “affected,” meaning structures saw minimal damage but are still habitable without repairs.
- Four businesses and one church also were listed as “affected,” with minimal damage.
Conclusion
FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance workers are visiting residents in communities devastated by tornadoes, helping ensure those eligible register for federal assistance. This aid can include housing assistance, child care expenses, and help with damaged vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I apply for FEMA aid?
A: You can apply through www.disasterassistance.gov, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or download the FEMA app.
Q: What is the purpose of FEMA’s visit?
A: BMI teams are visiting communities to ensure those eligible register for federal assistance and help them with aid, including housing, child care, and damaged vehicle expenses.
Q: Can’t FEMA duplicate what insurance covers?
A: Yes, FEMA cannot duplicate what insurance may cover. You should reach out to your insurance company first.
Q: What is the goal of FEMA’s visit?
A: FEMA’s goal is to help in conjunction with county and state efforts, supplementing what is needed to get people back on their feet.
