Applications available through F.I.S.H. for recovery aid
F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it is working around the clock to identify Hurricane Ian survivors who still need assistance with ascertaining repairs, obtaining bids and expediting rebuilding.
A team of student volunteers from Florida Gulf Coast University will be available to assess the needs of those living and working on Sanibel and Captiva on Jan. 19. From 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., they will distribute F.I.S.H. Long-Term Recovery program applications at: Jerry’s Foods, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel; Periwinkle Park, at 1119 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel; and the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.
“The goal of our Long-Term Recovery program is to identify and assist those still struggling with the financial burden from Hurricane Ian,” Disaster Administrative Director Manuela Martinez said. “While we cannot reimburse individuals for monies spent, we might be able to provide financial assistance for projects moving forward.”
The program is available to those who live — homeowners and tenants — and work full-time on the islands. The amount of financial assistance is limited and may only cover partial payments toward the cost of repairs. Payments are made to vendors that are providing services or recovery efforts due to Ian and not to individuals. It may include but is not limited to housing repairs, permitting costs, temporary housing, loss of goods and furnishings, and any other hurricane related needs for primary homes only.
“The emotional, physical and financial stress on our community is huge,” she said. “Many don’t know when repairs will be complete; some have emptied their savings while trying to bring their home back to pre-Ian condition. There are still many challenges facing survivors today.”
The program, in part, is made available through F.I.S.H.’s partnership with The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation and the American National Red Cross.
To apply for the program, an application must be completed. The application is also available at https://www.fishofsancap.org/ and can be picked up from F.I.S.H., at 2422 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Certain documentation and an initial intake session with Disaster Case Manager Nitza Lopez is required. Applications and documentation can be dropped off at F.I.S.H. on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. or scanned and emailed to nitza@fishofsancap.org.
Community members are encouraged to visit with the F.I.S.H. team and refer the program to others, even if they do not think they are eligible. F.I.S.H. may be able to provide other resources for assistance, including legal aid and opportunities to fast track the recovery process.
Those unable to visit F.I.S.H. can contact Lopez at 239-472-4775 — se habla español.
For more information, visit https://www.fishofsancap.org/.