Governor Cuomo Announces Housing Extension for Sandy Victims

Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program Extended in NY for an Additional 17 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 17-day extension to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, which 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 1, 2013. FEMA will call applicants eligible for the extension to notify them of the new checkout date.

“Nearly six months after Superstorm Sandy wreaked havoc for residents caught in its destructive path, the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program continues to be a vital resource for New Yorkers who still need housing assistance,” Governor Cuomo said. “This extension will provide them with a temporary place to stay while they continue to get their lives back to normal.”

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.