DENTON, TX – July 6, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) announced today that the Governor’s request for an extension of the temporary housing unit (THU) program has been granted for eligible Hurricane Ike survivors. The program, previously extended to July 9, 2010, will now end January 7, 2011.
“While the majority of temporary housing unit occupants in this program have transitioned to more permanent, long-term housing, there are a few that need a little more time,” said State Coordinating Officer Ben Patterson. “We are confident that this second extension will help the remaining occupants of FEMA-supplied units complete their recovery.”
In response to Hurricane Ike, a total of 3,701 temporary housing units (mobile homes and park models) were provided to Texas residents. Currently 149 units remain occupied.
“The majority of our remaining occupants are working to rebuild or repair their homes” added FEMA Hurricane Ike Recovery Manager Brad Harris. “Remaining families may continue to live in the units as long as they remain eligible and can show that they are making progress toward their permanent housing.”
FEMA continues to provide eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase their temporary housing unit through a sales program. To date, 1,062 occupants have chosen to buy their unit.
FEMA will also continue to work with the state, tribal nations, local governments and voluntary organizations to facilitate donations of units that can be used for the sole purpose of providing temporary housing to eligible applicants.
Additionally, at the State of Texas’ request, FEMA has reopened the temporary rental assistance program. Applicants may be authorized to receive a one-time Temporary Housing award for two month’s rent to facilitate their transition from the FEMA-provided THU into interim housing (subject to program rules for maximum assistance). For those applicants who are moving from the THU because their home is being constructed under a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project, the Recovery Manager may, on a case-by-case basis, authorize one additional month of rental assistance if, due to unforeseen contractor delays in repairing or reconstructing the dwelling, the applicant will have to remain out of the dwelling for more than 60 days.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
