A flood can be devastating, leaving you with a home in ruins and a sense of overwhelming loss. The recent flooding in Sarasota and Manatee counties from TS Debby has devastated thousands of people. But remember, you’re not alone, there is help available and recovery is possible. At the end of this post we have a list of organizations to contact for assistance. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
Immediate Steps:
Safety First: Prioritize your safety and that of your family. Avoid entering flooded areas until authorities declare it safe.
Document Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage for insurance purposes.
Contact Insurance: Notify your insurance company immediately. Gather necessary documents like policies and receipts.
Secure Your Home: If possible, take steps to prevent further damage, such as boarding up windows or covering damaged areas.
Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or local support groups for emotional and practical assistance
Recovery Process:
Create an Inventory: List damaged and lost items for insurance claims. For some a pen and paper do the trick, for others, creating a spreadsheet is more practical.
Professional Cleanup: Hire professionals to handle water removal, mold remediation, and debris removal. Restoration companies specialize in the aftermath of disasters such as flooding. They have the equipment and know how to salvage everything possible. The key is to contact them as soon as possible before they are overwhelmed with requests.
Hire a roll off dumpster service: Local companies like Patriot Dumpster LLC have roll off dumpsters that enable you to dispose of a large amount of debris at once. They can be reached at 941-278-0246.
Health and Safety: Wear protective gear (gloves, masks) during cleanup to avoid exposure to contaminants. Be mindful of yourself, if you notice you are feeling funny or rashes appear, seek medical attention because you may have been exposed to something that is affecting your health
Dry Out Your Home: Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the property as quickly as possible. In many cases, sheet rock on the walls has to be removed to dry out home out properly
Restore Utilities: Contact utility companies to restore electricity, gas, and water services.
Financial Assistance: Explore government aid, disaster relief funds, and low-interest loans to help with rebuilding costs.
Rebuild and Protect: Consider flood mitigation measures to protect your home from future damage.
Emotional Well-being:
Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental health. Get enough rest, eat well, and seek professional help if needed.
Build a Support Network: Connect with others who have experienced similar situations. Sharing experiences can be incredibly helpful.
Patience is Key: Recovery takes time. Be patient with yourself and the process.
Remember: The road to recovery is challenging, but with determination and support, you can rebuild your life.
FEMA Assistance
Sarasota County has been declared a federal disaster area. This means individual assistance will be available for City of Sarasota residents affected by Hurricane Debby. While plans are in the works to establish a FEMA Disaster Recover Center in Sarasota, residents can immediately start the assistance process by visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov
(Federal Emergency Management Adminitration) https://www.fema.gov/
(Small Business Administration) https://www.sba.gov/
Local charities and non-profit organizationsLook for organizations in your area that offer disaster relief assistance.
Sarasota Resources:
Multi-Agency Resource Center
A multi-agency resource center will open at Sarasota Christian Church, 2923 Ashton Road, Sarasota beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 10. Local and state resources available. Hours of operation:
Saturday, Aug. 10: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 11: 1-5 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 12: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Individuals are encouraged to call 311 if transportation to the resource center location is needed.
Crisis Cleanup
Volunteers from local relief organization such as Team Rubicon, community groups and faith communities can help with storm cleanup. Call 844-965-1386 to be connected. These groups may be able to assist with muck out, trees, tarps and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Aug. 23.
Please note: This hotline cannot assist with social services such as food, clothing, shelter, insurance, or questions about FEMA registration. Volunteers work free of charge and provide the tools necessary to complete the work.
For more information, visit crisiscleanup.org
Activate Hope
Serving as the emergency response arm for the Hope Florida initiative, Activate Hope pulls together the private sector, nonprofits, and government resources to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster.
Fill out the form here: https://loom.ly/XS5yM8Y
State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is operational. Residents needing resources after Hurricane Debby can call 1-800-342-3557. There are English and Spanish speakers available to answer questions.
Disaster Legal Aid: 833-514-2940
* Disaster survivors anywhere in the state may call to apply for free civil legal services.
United Methodist: 855-228-3862
Disaster survivors in the state may call to register for disaster assistance such as debris removal, tarping, muck and gut.
Crisis Cleanup: 844-965-1386
To request assistance for your livestock and animals in critical need, please complete a form online at https://loom.ly/hc5UgDk and then send it to DAIOPSAssessment@FDACS.gov, or call 863-993-5460.
The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7 for virtual urgent care at 1-877-741-3400.
VISIT FLORIDA has activated Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia and Priceline to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
The Florida Attorney General’s Office has activated the Florida price gouging hotline to accept reports of extreme price increases on essential commodities. The hotline number is 866-966-7226.
The Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) encourages Floridians to report unlicensed activity, by calling, 1-866-532-1440, visiting their website at myfloridalicense.com/unlicensed-activity, downloading the DBPR Mobile App or emailing ULA@myfloridalicense.com.
DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors to provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
Gather all necessary documents: Proof of residence, income verification, and damage estimates.
Meet deadlines: Apply for assistance as soon as possible.
Be patient: The application process may take time.
Keep records: Maintain copies of all applications, approvals, and denials.
Financial assistance can help ease the burden of recovery after a flood. By seeking available resources and being prepared,you can start rebuilding your life.
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