The City of Tampa will provide an additional $2 million in financial aid to homeowners impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton. The new Homeowner Hurricane Assistance (HHA) program is set to begin on November 17, offering support to primary homesteaded and income-eligible residents within the city limits.
Mayor Jane Castor stated, “Even a year after the storm, our commitment to supporting homeowners remains unwavering. We understand their challenges and continue to explore innovative ways to strengthen the resilience of our housing stock.”
The HHA program will focus on neighborhoods most affected by the storms, including Forest Hills, Palmetto Beach, and South of Gandy/Port Tampa. Eligible applicants must earn up to 140 percent of the Area Median Income plus a 10% flexibility margin—about $160,000 for a family of four. Each household can receive up to $30,000 in assistance. However, those who previously received help from the City’s Homeowners Disaster Assistance Program (HDAP) are not eligible for this round.
Development and Economic Opportunity Administrator Abbye Feeley explained the dual purpose behind these funds: “These funds aim to achieve two purposes: to assist homeowners who remain unable to repair their homes one year after the storms, and to reimburse those who completed repairs but exceeded the income thresholds for the Homeowner Disaster Assistance Program.”
The funding comes from Tampa’s General Fund through cooperation between Mayor Castor and City Council members. Councilman Luis Viera commented on its significance: “I’m thrilled to see this new funding come through for our north Tampa neighbors and others in the hardest hit areas who have been working tirelessly to rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. These are the hardworking men and women who make Tampa the great city that it is. They’re our teachers, our first responders, our small business owners — the backbone of our economy and our community. This aid is about more than just rebuilding homes; it’s about keeping families in the neighborhoods they love.”
Eligible expenses include roof repairs or replacement, HVAC systems, drywall and flooring work, cabinetry restoration, interior repairs, as well as tree removal due to hurricane damage.
Applicants will need proof of income and government-issued photo identification for all adult household members. Additional documentation requirements are available at tampa.gov/hha.
Applications open Monday through Wednesday from 9 A.M. until 3 P.M., starting November 17 until December 12. Residents may apply online or call (813) 307-5555 during regular business hours for assistance.
