Four Florida Panhandle counties are now eligible for additional disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The aid will help the state, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofits cover disaster-related expenses and the repair or rebuilding of critical infrastructure.
Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties were added Wednesday to the May 6 major disaster declaration for the severe storms and flooding that overwhelmed parts of the Panhandle from April 28 through May 6.
The state, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofits can now request funding through all categories of the Public Assistance grant program to help pay for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or rebuilding of eligible roads, bridges, water control facilities, buildings, equipment, utilities, parks and recreational facilities.
Funding under the Public Assistance program goes to the state and its agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations. The state manages the program and forwards the federal funds to eligible applicants that incurred costs.
More information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
Additionally, individuals and households in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties can register for FEMA’s Individual Assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone or tablet at m.FEMA.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call 800-462-7585. Lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (central time) and assistance is available in multiple languages.