FEMA Extends Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program in NY for an Additional 14 Days

Allows eligible survivors from Hurricane Sandy who cannot return to their homes to stay in participating hotels or motels

New York – The Federal Emergency Management Agency, at the request of the State of New York, has approved a 14-day extension to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program, which allows eligible survivors from Hurricane Sandy who cannot return to their homes to stay in participating hotels or motels.

The new extension will allow applicants to remain in participating hotels until Jan. 27, 2013. FEMA will call applicants eligible for the extension to notify them of the extended Jan. 27 checkout date.

“The Transitional Sheltering Assistance program is a temporary solution for folks who need a place to stay as we continue working with our state and local partners to help get people back into longer-term housing,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer Michael F. Byrne. “That’s our number one priority.”

“On behalf of Governor Cuomo, I thank FEMA for approving the State’s request to extend the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program,” said Jerome M. Hauer, Commissioner of the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.  “The extension of this important program provides necessary assistance to those affected by Hurricane Sandy as they continue to recover and rebuild.”

This is a short-term program that places families in hotels while they work toward a longer-term housing plan.

To be eligible for TSA, survivors must first apply for federal assistance through FEMA by:

·      Registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov; 

·      Registering via smartphone or tablet by using the FEMA app or going to m.fema.gov; or

·      Registering by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY 800-462-7585). For 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.