ReadyHarris Provides Crucial Resources for Storm-Affected Harris County Residents
In the wake of the recent devastating storms that swept through Houston, ReadyHarris has stepped up to offer much-needed aid, resources, and information to affected residents. These efforts aim to expedite recovery and restoration within the community.
According to ReadyHarris, President Joe Biden signed a disaster declaration for the State of Texas on May 17, 2024, allowing FEMA to provide Individual Assistance to those impacted by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding. Below is a list of federal, state, and local resources to help residents with recovery needs.
Immediate Assistance and Aid
For residents needing immediate help, ReadyHarris advises to dial 2-1-1. This directs the affected to a host of resources and information that can provide immediate assistance, helping to curb the immediate impact of the disaster.
ReadyHarris has compiled a comprehensive listing of cooling centers, shelters and distribution sites for aid. View locations through an interactive map located here to find the sites near you, with real time updates for hours and links for more information.
Cleanup Support for Harris County
ReadyHarris has also established a crisis cleanup helpline for Harris County residents at 832-509-2977. This initiative serves to aid in the recovery process by providing quicker, more efficient pathways to cleanup and restoration services.
FEMA Disaster Assistance Application
After Texans apply for disaster assistance, FEMA may call them to schedule an inspection of the damaged home, or to obtain more information to process the application. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers.
It is important to answer the call. A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, functional and accessible. If an inspection cannot be scheduled, that may cause a delay in FEMA’s review of the application.
There is no charge for an inspection. The inspector will have FEMA photo ID and the application number. FEMA representatives never ask for money.
If you receive a call from someone saying they are a FEMA representative but you aren’t sure, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify the caller’s identity.
SBA Disaster Loan Application
The SBA offers disaster assistance in the form of low-interest loans to businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters located in regions affected by declared disasters. SBA also provides eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations with working capital to help overcome the economic injury of a declared disaster.
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information, and download applications at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to apply for loans to repair property damage is Tuesday, July 16, 2024, and economic injury is Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Food Replacement
If you sustained power outages, you may be eligible for food replacement.
Homeowners and renters may be eligible for food replacement as part of their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy. Call your provider to check, as each insurance company and policy can have different benefits and requirements.
SNAP recipients may also receive replacement benefits due to a sustained power outage. Contact 2-1-1 or visit yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home to complete the replacement benefits application.
Connective Disaster Needs Assessment Survey
Lastly, a critical part of recovery and rebuilding involves evaluating and understanding residents’ needs. ReadyHarris has made available the Connective Disaster Needs Assessment Survey for victims of the recent disaster to communicate their needs to local nonprofits. The short, five-minute survey is accessible at connectivesurvey.org.
These comprehensive resources aim to provide a stable base for residents to start rebuilding their lives after the unfortunate storms. For more information, resources and updates, visit readyharris.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
