We have had a steady stream of individuals in Seminole County who are now deciding to evacuate after being in their flooded homes for an extended period of time and/or have been staying with friends/family. These individuals can:
Step # 1: Contact their insurance company and file a claim. Even if you are still in the flooded waters, this should take place. Some insurance may pay for a hotel stay.
Step # 2: Contact FEMA and report damage at 1-800-621-FEMA or FEMA.gov
Step # 3: Go to a FEMA Assistance Center if you need help with registration. These sites will begin tomorrow and will move around the community.
Step # 4: Contact the Citizens Information Hotline with unmet needs at 407-665-0000. Case managers are working on the cases, as quickly as possible. Based on the need, the staff is attempting to identify the applicants who qualify for grants and non-profit and faith-based organizations.
Step # 5: If the individual has no place to go, they can evacuate to the Central Florida Regional Evacuation Shelter which is located in Orange County near State Road 417 at the South Econ Community Park, Recreation Center, 3850 S Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando.
Additionally:
- Points of Distribution: water, food, mosquito spray, tarps, and other items placed in the community. Sites in Geneva, Goldsboro, Lincoln Heights, Midway, and Winter Springs.
- SANDBAG LOCATIONS: There is a limit of up to 15 bags per household. Locations will be staffed and assistance will be provided to elderly individuals and those with special needs. Seminole County:
- OLD GENEVA VOLUNTEER FIRE STATION, 217 2nd St, Geneva, Open Now - 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- LAKE MONROE WAYSIDE PARK, 4150 Highway 17, Sanford, Open Now - 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- BOOMBAH SPORTS COMPLEX, 3450 E Lake Mary Blvd, Sanford, Open Now8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
FEMA MOBILE REGISTRATION INTAKE CENTER
Under and uninsured individuals and households may be eligible for disaster assistance from FEMA. Individuals or households who have evacuated or experienced damage due to Hurricane Ian should file an insurance claim BEFORE applying for FEMA assistance.
There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:
o Online; disasterassistance.gov
o By phone; 800-621-3362
o In person; if you’re unable to apply online or by phone, FEMA representatives will be available at Mobile Registration Intake Centers this week.
Please share this information if you’re able! We’ve also attached fliers for the mobile sites. If you have field staff, please ensure they have copies to give folks that may not have internet or phone access.
We will hold a press event at the Geneva Rural Heritage Center tomorrow regarding FEMA MRIC sites. These are not Disaster Recovery Centers (longer-term sites)-- those may come later.
We anticipate DCF opening the Disaster SNAP (food assistance) program in 3 weeks or so, with a site in Seminole County.
