Push to bring more relief to Hurricane Ida survivors in NJ

NEW JERSEY (PIX11) — There is a push in New Jersey to bring more help to survivors of Hurricane Ida, some of whom are still not back in their homes.

U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone is pushing to retroactively apply new FEMA rules to Ida survivors.
In March, new FEMA rules went into effect, simplifying the process to receive federal aid, removing barriers to entry, and increasing eligibility for certain types of assistance.

“Many times, you felt like you were applying [for FEMA aid] but there were so many problems and exemptions and rules that you ended up getting practically nothing,” said Pallone. “And I just think that’s not fair.”

Leanna Jones, an Ida survivor and member of the New Jersey Organizing Project, said retroactively applying the new FEMA rules to Ida survivors would mean so much to her and her family.

“This would literally help us keep a roof over our heads,” said Jones.

The new FEMA rules provide $750 for food and medicine immediately following a disaster. Storm victims can also receive as much as $42,500 to cover expenses that insurance denies.

Jones said the money would make a significant difference, even three years later.

“I know several people who are either in hotels, renting, in an RV, with family members, still three years later,” said Jones. “So it would still make a huge difference and allow some people to finish or get the next step in their recovery done.”

Bob Simpson is one such Ida survivor who could benefit. He has been living out of a hotel room since Ida, but FEMA stopped covering the cost after one year. He is simultaneously paying his mortgage and hotel costs, with little money left over to finish raising his house. Simpson likened his living situation to purgatory.

“I feel as though I’m adrift in another world, you know?” said Simpson.

If the updated FEMA rules were applied retroactively, Simpson said he would finish construction on his home and, hopefully, move back in.

“I’d finish it in a heartbeat,” said Simpson.

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