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 14-day extension to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program, which allows eligible survivors from Hurricane Sandy who cannot return to their homes to stay in participating hotels or motels.

The new extension will allow applicants to remain in participating hotels until January 26, 2013. FEMA will call applicants eligible for the extension to notify them of the extended 14-day period and the checkout date of January 27, 2013.

“We cannot forget the struggles that continue to plague victims of Hurricane Sandy. Many still do not have homes to return to and continue to need shelter,” Governor Cuomo said. “The Transitional Sheltering Assistance program will provide individuals with shelter while we work to get people back into longer-term housing.”

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.

(YWN Desk – NYC)