Tampa opens applications for $2 million hurricane recovery fund

Mayor Jane Castor,  City Of Tampa
Mayor Jane Castor, City Of Tampa - City Of Tampa website
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Applications are now open for Tampa homeowners seeking financial assistance to repair hurricane damage. The City of Tampa, in partnership with the Tampa City Council, has launched the Homeowner Hurricane Assistance (HHA) program, which will distribute $2 million to residents affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The HHA program targets primary homesteaded and income-eligible homeowners, focusing on neighborhoods most impacted by the storms, such as Forest Hills, Palmetto Beach, and South of Gandy/Port Tampa.

“Even a year after the storm, our commitment to supporting homeowners remains unwavering,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “We understand their challenges and continue to explore innovative ways to strengthen the resilience of our housing stock.”

Eligibility requirements include being a homeowner within Tampa city limits and earning up to 140 percent of the Area Median Income plus 10 percent flexibility—about $160,000 for a family of four. The maximum award per household is $30,000. Homeowners who previously received aid from the City’s Homeowners Disaster Assistance Program earlier this year are not eligible for HHA.

“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,” said Development and Economic Opportunity Administrator Abbye Feeley.

The funding comes from Tampa’s General Fund with support from both City Council and Mayor Castor. It is intended for long-term recovery efforts in housing.

“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,” said Councilman Luis Viera. “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 repairs covered by HHA include roof repair or replacement, HVAC systems, drywall and flooring restoration, cabinetry repairs, interior restoration work, as well as tree removal due to hurricane-related damage.

Applicants must provide proof of income and government-issued photo identification for all adult household members. More information on required documentation can be found at tampa.gov/hha.

Applications will be accepted every Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., starting November 17th through December 12th. Residents may apply online or call (813) 307-5555 during regular business hours for assistance.



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