FEMA disaster relief applications have been extended for Hurricane Ida victims in 25 parishes after Gov. John Bel Edwards’ request was approved. The new deadline is Nov. 29.
FEMA spokesperson Nate Custer told Louisiana Radio Network that Edwards requested the extension because of possible communication issues.
“Maybe not everyone had received the word that you had to register with FEMA to be considered for assistance,” Custer said.
Custer said that FEMA aid is available to assist victims with costs not covered by insurance, like temporary shelter, rental assistance and some home repairs.
“We try to make the home safe, secure and functional so that people who’ve been displaced because of some damage to their dwelling can move back in,” said Custer.
To apply for Hurricane Ida disaster assistance, FEMA officials said it’s fastest to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also call 1-800-621-3362 (1-800-462-7585 if you are deaf/hard of hearing and have a TTY device).
As of Oct. 29, FEMA has approved 536,726 applications for disaster aid related to Hurricane Ida, amounting to just over $900 million so far, according to FEMA’s website.
Nearly $500 million was approved for housing needs like rental assistance, hotel costs, home repair and home replacement. Over $400 million was approved for other needs, including debris removal tools, transportation and medical expenses
Additionally, over $1.3 million was approved for emergency costs like debris removal and power line repair. For the latest data, visit the Hurricane Ida page on FEMA.gov.
