The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched various forms of aid for the victims of hurricanes Milton and Helene in the United States.
FEMA provides immediate funds after a disaster to cover urgent needs, and affected individuals can receive an initial assistance of $750 intended to cover essential expenses such as medications or diapers.
In addition, that support can be expanded to cover the rent of temporary housing or storage units for those who have lost their homes.
How to receive help from FEMA?
"Serious Needs Assistance" is a flexible initial payment designed to cover essential items such as food, water, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, medications, and other emergency products.
FEMA assistance can be requested by filling out an application online at disasterassistance.gov; using the FEMA app, or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
You can also apply in person by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). The DRCs closest to your residence can be found on the FEMA website.
Who is eligible to receive FEMA assistance?
To be eligible for FEMA financial assistance, one must reside in an area declared a disaster zone by the president.
The status of the area can be verified using FEMA's address search tool.
To apply for assistance, the following information is also needed: social security number; insurance information; description of the damages suffered; annual household income; contact information and banking details for direct deposit.
FEMA urges all affected individuals to apply for available assistance and to stay informed about updates and additional resources through their official channels.
Other forms of aid for the victims of hurricanes Milton and Helene.
Regarding those interested in donating to help the victims, the authorities recommend conducting thorough research before donating to avoid scams that seek to take advantage of these tragedies.
Cinthya Lavin, spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau (BBB), has warned that "whenever a natural disaster occurs, it is crucial for people to take precautions and do research before making donations."
The National Disaster Fraud Center of the Department of Justice has a hotline to report disaster-related scams, the number is 866-790-5721.
To avoid being a victim of fraud, it is advisable to make contributions to recognized organizations; do not give in to pressure, as accredited charitable organizations do not use these tactics, and do not respond to unsolicited communications.
It is also important to avoid clicking on links or images of disasters sent by unknown individuals, as they may install viruses on your device. Be cautious with entities that use names similar to recognized organizations.
Lavin recommends using a credit card to make donations and verifying the legitimacy of the organization on sites like give.org, guidestar.org, and charitynavigator.org.
Finally, if you consider traveling to the affected area to deliver donations, it is preferable to first contact a local organization or entity so as not to interfere with the ongoing recovery efforts.
Organizations like the American Red Cross, which has deployed hundreds of volunteers in Florida, are providing assistance to those affected by hurricanes Milton and Helene, offering shelter, food, and emergency supplies.
If you wish to support the Red Cross, you can visit their website or call 1-800-733-2767.
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