Storm-soaked Residents Can Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

Residents can apply for federal disaster assistance related to New Year’s storms

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San Mateo County homeowners and renters who suffered damage or losses due to the New Year’s storms can apply for federal disaster assistance by clicking here or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The deadline to apply is March 16.

Disaster assistance can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, moving and storage expenses, unemployment payments for self-employed workers who lost jobs due to the disaster, low-interest loans to cover residential losses not fully compensated by insurance and more, according to the County.

U.S. Reps. Anna Eshoo and Kevin Mullin advocated to secure the federal disaster relief. Eshoo said the storms caused over $17 million in damage to homes, businesses, roads and local government facilities in San Mateo County.

“This will be of great help to individuals and business owners who suffered losses during the severe storms that dumped 13 inches of rain on the county in December and January,” Mullin said.

To apply, FEMA advises that residents first file a claim with their insurance provider. FEMA only provides assistance for an applicant’s uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and needs.

Top Photo: Pescadero flooding Jan 2023, courtesy of San Mateo County