UPCOMING EVENTS

See what's happening this month.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, communities across the affected regions are coming together to begin the long road to recovery. The storm, which left widespread damage, has severely impacted homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods. While cleanup efforts are underway, many individuals are still grappling with the aftermath, from property loss to displacement.

Local, state, and federal agencies have mobilized to provide aid to those in need. Disaster relief funds, housing assistance programs, and mental health services are now available to support impacted residents. It is important for individuals to stay informed about the resources available to them and seek assistance promptly to ensure they receive the support they are entitled to.

For those affected by Hurricane Helene, a wide range of services may be available to assist with rebuilding and recovery. Below is a list of links to important resources:

Resources for Impacted Individuals:

1. FEMA Disaster Assistance
2. American Red Cross Disaster Relief
3. Housing Assistance: HUD
4. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
5. National Disaster Distress Helpline
6. Food Assistance: SNAP Disaster Benefits
7. State Unemployment Benefits for Disaster Victims

Ask How We Can Help You Find Employment Today!

One-Stop Visits 21,601

(Jul. 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024)

2,179 Individuals have found Employment as a Direct Result

of CareerSource Pasco Hernando.

(Jul. 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024)

Business Served 1,483

(Jul. 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024)

info@careersourcepascohernando.com

or call (813)377-1300

UNEMPLOYMENT

(Rates Not Seasonally Adjusted)

Pasco: 4.2%

Hernando: 4.9%

Florida: 3.7%

United States: 4.4%

Hernando County Residents Urged to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance Following Hurricane Helene

Homeowners and renters in Hernando County who were impacted by Hurricane Helene are encouraged to apply for federal disaster assistance to help jump-start their recovery. Applying is simple and can be done with just a 20-minute phone call or a quick click online.

If you were affected by both Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene, make sure to provide the date of the most recent damages when registering for assistance. This will ensure that you receive the proper support for your situation.

On Saturday, September 28, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made federal assistance available by approving a Major Disaster Declaration for the state of Florida. This declaration provides much-needed financial relief to help residents cover the costs of recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.

How to Apply with FEMA:

• Visit: DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA: 800-621-3362 (FEMA)
• FEMA works with each household on a case-by-case basis.
• Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

Types of FEMA Assistance Available

FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the recent hurricanes. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply.

Pasco County Opens Comfort Stations and Extends Services for Hurricane Helene Victims

Pasco County is stepping up to support residents impacted by Hurricane Helene by opening two comfort stations on the west side of the county. These stations are designed to provide essential services to individuals and families affected by the storm.

Starting Sunday, September 29, the following locations will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., until further notice:

• Hudson Library | 8012 Library Rd, Hudson
• Ben Harrill Recreation Complex | 2830 Gulf Trace Blvd, Holiday

Additionally, the City of New Port Richey is opening its own comfort station with the same operating hours at:

• New Port Richey Recreation & Aquatic Center | 6630 Van Buren St., New Port Richey

Available Amenities at All Three Locations:

• Air Conditioning
• Restrooms
• Showers (Please bring your own toiletries)
• Laundry Facilities (Please bring your own laundry supplies)
• Charging Stations for electronic devices

These comfort stations are designed to provide relief and essential services as the community works through the aftermath of the storm.

Points of Distribution (POD) for Food and Water:

Pasco County is also extending services at two Points of Distribution (POD) locations to ensure that those displaced by the storm have access to food and water. The following POD sites will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for drive-in customers, while supplies last:

• Hudson Library Parking Lot
• J. Ben Harrill Recreation Complex Parking Lot

Need Assistance?

Pasco County Customer Service will be open on Sunday, September 29, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to answer any questions. You can reach out by calling 727.847.2411 or chat with us online at MyPasco.net.

We encourage anyone in need of these services to visit the comfort stations or POD locations to help meet their immediate needs during this challenging time.