(FORT MYERS, Fla.) – The office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio is now hosting an in-person recovery assistance center in North Fort Myers, with assistance of attorneys with Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS), to help Hurricane Ian survivors appeal for FEMA aid after receiving a denial from the federal agency.
"I am so pleased that FRLS’ staff has coordinated our comprehensive disaster services and has communicated outreach to ensure coverage for free disaster aid made possible by Senator Rubio’s recovery center,” said Jaffe Pickett, FRLS chief executive officer/executive director. “FRLS' dedicated management and advocates collaborated to assist in these critical and timely recovery efforts made possible by Senator Rubio’s office. ”
FRLS attorneys will be on-site at North Fort Myers Park and Recreation Center, located at 2000 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers, on Friday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
FRLS works to help individuals and families recover from the effects of a major disaster. The aftermath of a disaster can be staggering leaving survivors overwhelmed by the process of recovery. FRLS works closely with disaster survivors to put them on the path to recovery.
Residents who are looking to appeal should bring their FEMA denial letter and any recent FEMA correspondence, said FRLS attorneys.
“The destruction is catastrophic,” said Senator Rubio. “Long after the national media moves on, Floridians will continue to recover and rebuild. We’ll be right here with you, and the first step is making sure people and businesses impacted by Hurricane Ian are able to receive the assistance they’re entitled to under the law.”
FRLS attorneys may provide FREE legal counseling, advice and when appropriate and necessary, full representation in the following types of disaster cases (based on qualifications) :
• FEMA assistance and FEMA appeals
• Help with insurance claims for property damage, and loss of personal property
• Landlord disputes
• Property ownership disputes
• Help with home repair contracts and contractors
• Questions about consumer scams and consumer protection matters
• Assistance replacing legal documents lost in a storm
• Help completing an application for disaster loans and grants and assistance
• Applying for Disaster Food Assistance
• Help with FEMA Notice of Potential Debt recoupment letters
• and other disaster related legal issues
Those who have not yet applied for assistance, but wish to do so, are urged to bring their Social Security Number, insurance information, damage information, financial information (including annual household income), contact information, and banking information.
For legal assistance, Hurricane Ian survivors are asked to contact FRLS at 1-888-582-3410.