A Message from Congressman Scott Franklin

As we continue to respond to Hurricane Milton, my team and I are traveling across FL-18, assessing Central Florida damage and meeting with state and local leaders to discuss recovery efforts. 

Thank you to the National Guard, first responders, emergency management staff, utility workers and volunteers who are working to get our community back on its feet. I’m happy to see our communities banding together and supporting one another. Our resilience will help us rebuild and make our communities stronger than ever. 

If you need assistance, FEMA, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other government agencies offer initial assistance to residents and business owners impacted by natural disasters. 
You may apply for FEMA assistance by:

• Visiting disasterassistance.gov
• Calling 800-621-3362
• Using the FEMA app

You may apply for SBA assistance by:

• Using the MySBA Loan Portal at lending.sba.gov
• Calling 800-659-2955
• Emailing [email protected]

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has also announced Operation Blue Roof, a no-cost service to provide and install industrial-strength sheeting to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs. Hurricane-impacted residents in DeSoto, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Okeechobee and Polk counties can now apply through Tuesday, November 5. You may apply by:

• Visiting blueroof.gov and filling out this sign-up form
• Calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258)
• Visiting a Right of Entry (ROE) collection center in affected area

It is important to be on high alert for bad actors taking advantage of Helene and Milton. Always ask FEMA and other agency staff to show you a photo ID badge. Never agree to pay a fee for disaster assistance or filling out applications. If an inspector comes to your home and you haven't filed a FEMA or other relief application, your information may have been used without your knowledge. Call the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 to report scam or other fraud-related incidents.

Rest assured, my team and I will continue to work to ensure FEMA and related federal agencies are equipped to deal with the aftermath of strong winds, extensive flooding, power outages and post-storm debris. If my office can help, or you need assistance with a federal agency, click here or call 863-644-8215 for further assistance.
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It's an honor and privilege to represent you in Congress. For more information or to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at franklin.house.gov.