The federal government provides a variety of assistance programs for people impacted by disasters like the two major hurricanes, Helene and Milton, that recently hit the Southeastern US. To get access to the funding,

Tampa Bay residents and others across Florida whose homes and property were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Milton can now apply for aid through FEMA's direct assistance program. Why it matters: The federal aid — which includes includes grants for temporary housing and repairs for uninsured damage — provides a financial lifeline after natural disasters.

Federal emergency response crews are still working to evacuate flooded areas in Florida hit by Hurricane Milton.