DeSantis launches Unite Florida to help residents impacted by Hurricane Ian

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis launches a new state-funded program aimed at helping residents who did not qualify for FEMA disaster relief after Hurricane Ian.

“What we’ve done is launch a first-of-its-kind, state-led housing initiative to provide travel trailers and recreational vehicles to impacted Floridians who may not be eligible for FEMA’s direct housing program, " DeSantis says.

The portal called Unite Florida can be found at the website, IanRecovery.FL.Gov, and displaced residents can apply online to restore their homes back to livable conditions.

“We launch the Unite Florida Portal, one-stop-shop where impacted Floridians can apply for state housing program, as well as, report other unmet needs including transportation and food assistance,” DeSantis says.

Unite Florida will offer up to 25 million dollars for housing aid including building materials, temporary shelters, and also residents’ needs such as transportation, senior services, and household supplies.

Unite Florida’s funds will go to verified non-profit organizations to rebuild and restore damaged property, so displaced residents can return home.

In addition, Florida’s Disaster Fund will add 35.2 million dollars to help pay workers to rebuild homes and provide volunteers from around the country a way to continue offering their services as Southwest Florida recovers from a devastating hurricane season.

“Southwest Floridians have a long road to recovery ahead of them, and my administration is working hard to ensure we’re making that process as smooth as possible,” DeSantis says. “This recovery portal will assist eligible Floridians with navigating the available support options, including resources available through Florida’s first-of-its-kind state-led sheltering and housing relief program.”

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