FEMA Extends Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program in New York

NEW YORK — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), at the request of the state of New York, has approved a 30-day extension to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program.  The program allows FEMA applicants whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Sandy, to stay in hotels or motels.  This temporary emergency program is intended to help applicants whose homes are uninhabitable, until more suitable housing accommodations are available.

“We know that some survivors in hard-hit areas are facing critical challenges to getting back into their homes,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Michael F. Byrne. “We are working in close coordination with our state and local partners to do all we can to speed that process.  Until that day, the TSA extension will offer eligible survivors some relief.”

The program, which began November 3, was originally scheduled to expire on November 16 with a checkout on November 17.  The program now runs through December 14, in two successive intervals, with checkout dates of December 1, 2012, and December15, 2012.

New Yorkers can register for FEMA assistance online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via smart phone on m.fema.gov. Applicants may also call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.  Survivors who use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice. 

FEMA has a toll-free number to help New Yorkers eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance find a hotel.  The phone number is 866-863-8673 or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585; phone lines are open from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week.  New Yorkers who need accessible transportation assistance from the shelter they are currently in to the hotel where they will be staying should identify that need to operators at 866-863-8673 or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. New Yorkers can also go online at http://femaevachotels.com/ to find participating hotels.  

Meals, telephone calls and other incidental charges are not covered. Applicants are responsible for any lodging costs above the authorized allowance.  The program does not reimburse previously incurred hotel expenses.