NYS Sen. Martinez, Gov. Hochul Encourage Suffolk Residents to Apply for Flood Damage Assistance

New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez is urging residents who suffered damage during the catastrophic flooding event on August 18–19, 2024, to apply for emergency housing repair grants offered by the state through the Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) program.  These grants may be used for emergency repairs necessary to make homes safe, sanitary, and habitable. The application period is open now and will close on Monday, October 7, 2024.

Sen. Martinez issued this reminder following the state's announcement that the program is now accepting applications.

Eligible homeowners can receive up to $50,000 in funding to repair their primary residence if it sustained storm damage and if insurance or other disaster recovery funds are insufficient to restore the home to a safe condition.  To qualify, applicants' household income must not exceed 150% of the county area median income (AMI), which is $164,100 for an individual, $234,300 for a family of four, and $309,300 for a family of eight.  A complete income eligibility chart is available here.  Grants will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.  The program is being administered locally by the Long Island Housing Partnership, and potential applicants can learn more by visiting the Long Island Storm Recovery page.

"The devastation caused by last month’s unprecedented storm has left many families and communities struggling to recover,” said Sen. Martinez.  “These grants will provide much-needed support to residents who suffered losses but lack the coverage necessary to restore their homes to safe, livable conditions.  I urge all eligible residents to apply as soon as possible to begin the process of rebuilding their homes and their lives."

On Wednesday, Gov. Kathy Hochul requested President Biden issue a Major Disaster Declaration to support the ongoing recovery of communities in Suffolk, Oswego, and Lewis counties.  In what has been described as a 1-in-1,000-year rain event, last month’s storm dropped nearly 10 inches of precipitation in parts of Suffolk County, resulting in widespread flash flooding, swiftwater rescues of stranded residents and vehicles, and significant damage to private structures and public infrastructure, including dam failures and the washing away of a roadway.