Texas disaster assistance programs – Have you been hit by Hurricane Harvey? There are programs like FEMA, the S HSalvation Army, the Red Cross, and other charitable organizations that specialize in helping victims of disasters. Get help with rent, utilities, mortgage, and other bills.
Hurricane Harvey is one of the worst disasters in the history of Texas. Thousands have lost homes, jobs, and some of their lives and must stay in hotels or motels. However, there will always be other storms and the need to find assistance afterward. Find out where to go when you do not know where and what to do during and after a disaster.
How to Receive Assistance
Emergency Contact Numbers
- Looking for a safe shelter: 1-800-RED-CROSS
- Receive trauma counseling: 1-800-985-5990 or go here
- Report a Missing child: 1- 866-908-9570
- Notify family you are safe: here
Also, Check Out
FEMA: Different Texas Disaster Assistance Programs
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security. They aim to deal with hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, winter storms, floods, and other disasters too big for state and local municipalities. Once the governor requests a State of Emergency from the president, FEMA and other agencies have the authority and funding to respond.
You can not register for FEMA Assistance. Authorized representatives will come to shelters and temporary housing stations to help write to those displaced by the storm. You can also register online if you have access to mobile services. Contact the agencies to register to help.
The Federal Assistance to Individuals and Households Program and other assistance programs offer up to $33,000 for repairs to private homes or household property damaged in a major disaster.
The U.S. Government, charities, relief groups, and individuals are working together to provide whatever ever help is needed to meet your mandatory immediate and long-term needs.
- Crisis counseling
- Legal Assistance
- Veterans’ benefits
- Income tax assistance
- Financial assistance for help with temporary housing
- Unemployment payments up to 26 weeks for workers
- Low-interest loans for individuals and business owners
- Grants for mandatory home repairs and essential household items not covered by insurance policies
- Grants to replace personal items, dental, medical bills, transportation, and funeral arrangements
How to Apply for Help
You can apply for assistance online if you are a business or individual affected by a disaster. Registering for help at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or
- Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
- For hearing or speech disability, call 1-800-462-7585
- For those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362.
- The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
Texas (D-SNAP) – Disaster SNAP
D-SNAP is a food benefit given to residents during a disaster. You may be eligible for D-SNAP benefits when
- You do not get regular SNAP benefits
- You were living in the declared disaster area
- You have clean-up expenses
- Lost your job due to a disaster
- You need repairs on your home or business
- Temporary shelter or evacuation expenses
- Securing your home or business
- Replace personal or household items
- Personal injury, including funeral expenses
When you apply for D-SNAP, a caseworker calculates your income at the time of the disaster, money in the bank, on hand, etc. D-SNAP benefits are determined by income and family size.
To find out which local stores are open, call the Lone Star Help Desk at 1-800-7777 EBT (1-800-777-7328).
Harvey Financial Assistance
Texas is a great producer of cattle and produce. Farmers can experience huge losses during a natural disaster. If you are a farmer or rancher, the Texas Department of Agriculture provides emergency programs and resources during your time of need.
The STAR Fund (State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund) helps farmers and ranchers during unexpected emergencies. This fund can help rebuild and secure properties, get businesses up and running, and meet other immediate needs. $1,000 is given for each $2,000 of expenses. You have 60 days to apply for assistance.
Eligibility – You must complete an application and provide proof of loss and invoices for all restoration work.
Safe Places to Donate to Texas Disaster Assistance Programs
Hurricane Harvey is one of the worst disasters in the US in recent times. The victims will need support for a very long time. People have lost homes, belongings, and jobs as this storm has also shut down local stores and businesses.
While you want to donate to a worthy cause, you want to ensure you give to a legitimate organization. Do not give unless you know who you are giving to. Be careful when giving. During these times of hardship, fake charities pop up online to exploit those wanting to help. Please give directly online to confirmed disaster relief organizations.
Samaritan’s Purse
This is a fantastic faith-based organization that is a first responder to bring disaster assistance around the world. They are a 501c(3) organization. What is good to know is that 88.1% of your donations go directly to the cause. You will receive an automated receipt to use for tax deduction purposes.
Red Cross – The American Red Cross is a not-for-profit 501c3 charitable organization. Your donation to the Red Cross is tax deductible. They are a relief organization helping people worldwide.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army typically spends 82% of donations on aid. But during disasters, 100% of your donation goes to relief efforts. Donate to the Salvation Army
Other Giving Links
- Save the Children
- Southern Baptist Disaster Relief
- Heart to Heart International
TRACI CREW – DSNAP is available as soon as your state Governor declares a state of emergency, which he has done. Here is more information. . Good luck.