Governor Cuomo Announces Housing Extension for Sandy Victims

Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program Extended in NY for an Additional 28 Days

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), at the request of the State of New York, has approved a 28-day extension to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program beginning on May 1st, which was the deadline for the last extension granted earlier in April. This new extension allows eligible survivors from Superstorm Sandy who cannot return to their homes to stay in participating hotels or motels.

The new checkout date for those in the TSA program is May 29, 2013. FEMA will call applicants eligible for the extension to notify them of the new checkout date.

“Nearly six months after the storm, this program continues to be an essential resource for Sandy victims who still cannot return home, which is why we asked FEMA for an extension beyond the program’s usual six-month life,” Governor Cuomo said. “This extension for the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program will give more time to those without a housing solution to find one.”

This is a short-term program that places families in hotels while they work toward a longer-term housing plan.

To be eligible for TSA, survivors must first apply for federal assistance through FEMA by:

· Registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov;

· Registering via smartphone or tablet by using the FEMA app or going to m.fema.gov; or

· Registering by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY 800-462-7585). For 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.