The state of Florida and FEMA have recently opened two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to assist residents in Orange and Osceola County in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. The DRCs are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and are located at the addresses listed below.
ORANGE COUNTY
Barnett Park
4801 W. Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32808
OSCEOLA COUNTY
Hart Memorial Central Library
211 E. Dakin Avenue
Kissimmee, FL 34741
In addition to FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), state agencies, and other organizations offering aid will be present to provide information and services, including:
1. help to apply for federal assistance and disaster loans
2. help to update existing applications;
3. mitigation with existing claims
4. information and help applying for disaster loans from the SBA
5. Crisis counseling
6. Assistance from the Florida Dept. of Children and Families
7. Assistance from the Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation
8. Assistance from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities
Although FEMA claims do not have to be filed in person, in-person help will be offered at the DRCs to all who need it, including accessible assistance, such as in-person sign language.
According to FEMA, residents seeking assistance at the DRCs should be prepared to provide the following information and documentation:
1. proof of a legal address that was damaged,
2. insurance documents, social security number,
3. phone number; and
4. the address where they’re currently residing.
For a complete list of all DRC locations throughout Florida, click here.
Melissa Youngman Law will provide free legal help to a limited number of Florida residents seeking to file FEMA claims or apply for SBA disaster relief regarding Hurricane Ian. The free services will be limited in scope, conducted by phone appointments, and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Requesting an appointment does not guarantee free services. All applicants must be screened for conflicts, availability, and other factors before qualifying for the free services. Phone appointments may be made by clicking the button below.
*The Young Lawyers Division of the Florida Bar is also providing free legal help to hurricane survivors via its disaster hotline (866-550-2929).