Flooding assistance available to homeowners affected by severe storms and flash flooding

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced $13 million is available for restoration and recovery efforts following the severe storms and flash flooding on Aug. 13-15 that severely impacted communities in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions.

“Extreme weather is the new normal in New York and it’s critical that we build more resilient communities to withstand this reality,” Governor Cuomo said, adding, “This funding will help ensure families across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes that were hit hard by recent storms and flash flooding have the resources they need to rebuild stronger and safer than before.” 

“Areas around the world are being impacted by severe weather events that are devastating communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. 

She added, “The damage costs millions, making it even more difficult to rebuild and recover in the aftermath of a storm. This funding will help communities in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions rebuild after severe storms and flooding damaged homes and streets in the area. We want to ensure that families are able to recover and build back stronger in the aftermath of a natural disaster.”

A new residential assistance program has been created to provide funding to primary homeowners whose damages exceed insurance claims and other available aid. With maximum grants of $50,000, this program will help eliminate the unmet need of homeowners. New York State Homes and Community Renewal will administer the program, and assistance will be provided in Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Tioga, Delaware and Chenango counties.

The grants can go toward reimbursements to support repairs to and restoration of structures, and other physical damage required for safety and habitability, including foundations, heating systems, electric systems, wells and septic systems, insulation, and flooring. 

National Weather Service data indicates these regions received between 10 and 20 inches of rain during the 30-day period beginning July 22, 2018. The August storms near the end of this period produced heavy rainfall, flash flooding and strong winds, and combined with ground saturated by this abnormally wet period, produced significant damage.

On Aug. 14, the Governor declared a State of Emergency, and nine local governments also declared States of Emergency due to the severity of the storm. Widespread power outages impacted more than 1,500 homes and businesses in the area, and state and local first responders rescued and evacuated more than 200 people from campgrounds in the Finger Lakes Region.  

As a result of the damage caused by these storms, Governor Cuomo requested technical assistance in the form of a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment on Aug. 24. On Oct. 2, the Federal Government announced approval for a major disaster declaration, making funding available to state government, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by these severe storms.

Applications from homeowners for the residential assistance program will be accepted starting Monday, Nov. 5. The deadline for applications is Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. Applications will be available from local not-for-profit housing organizations that are administering the program. 

Homeowners seeking an application should contact: Bishop Sheen (Tioga and Seneca Counties), (585) 657-4114, email dbassage@rochester.rr.com, or visit https://sheenhousing.org/.

For Schuyler, Chemung, Broome, Delaware and Chenango Counties, contact Arbor Housing and Development, (607) 654-7487 x2049, email to Info@arbordevelopment.org, or visit www.arbordevelopment.org.

Tioga County Legislative Chair Marte Sauerbrey, stated, “In the wake of this summer’s flash flooding, residents across the region faced unimaginable devastation to their homes and property. Many families were left reeling, unsure of where to turn and how to take the first step toward recovery. Thanks to Governor Cuomo, residents continue to receive the assistance they need to rebuild their property and restore their lives.” 

Allynn Smith, executive director of Bishop Sheen Ecumenical Housing Foundation, said, “We have seen the disruption in lives caused when homes are wrecked by severe storms and Bishop Sheen is proud to partner with New York State in helping our neighbors get back on their feet. We are ready to connect with homeowners and start them down the path to recovery.”