DeSantis Announces Portal for State Shelter and Housing Help

By Lydia Nusbaum

Published Nov. 21, 2022, 4:37 p.m. ET | Updated Nov. 21, 2022

"Just 10 days after Hurricane Ian made landfall, residents now have access to return to Fort Myers Beach," Gov. Ron DeSantis, Oct. 8, 2022.

TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – The Unite Florida Recovery Portal launched to help Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian access recovery resources such as housing support.

The Governor’s Office said the state’s first-ever state-led sheltering and housing program is provides temporary sheltering options through IanRecovery.fl.gov.

Temporary shelter options include travel trailers and recreational vehicles. For households whose needs are not met through insurance or FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, there may be temporary or permanent repairs for households available. Those affected by the hurricane can also use the portal for transportation, household items and social services.

“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,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “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.”

Hurricane Ian survivors can apply for FEMA assistance and continuously update their applications by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, calling (800) 621-3362, using the FEMA app or visiting one of more than 20 open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs).

“This innovative recovery portal will allow impacted residents to report their unmet needs, including housing, to aid in restoring the Southwest Florida community and get families back on their feet,” said FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie. “I would like to thank the Governor and First Lady for their steadfast leadership and their use of innovative solutions to assist Floridians in their time of need.”

IanRecovery.fl.gov resources will also available in Spanish and Haitian-Creole. Information entered on the website is completely confidential. For those who need additional assistance completing an application, please call 1-800-892-0948.