Disaster Assistance Programs and Resources

Marina Dock Age has compiled a comprehensive list of resources available to marinas and boatyards impacted by hurricanes and other weather-related events. 

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides disaster services with information, support, and assistance. Individuals and business owners are encouraged to input their zip code on www.DisasterAssistance.gov to determine if they are in an area that has been declared for assistance. 
• The Better Business Bureau has created a hurricane guide for business owners. The site also includes disaster preparedness tips, recovery and repair services, government resources, and information on how to avoid storm chaser scams. 
• Special tax law provisions may help taxpayers and businesses recover financially from the impact of a disaster, especially when the federal government declares their location to be a major disaster area. Depending on the circumstances, the IRS may grant additional time to file returns and pay taxes. Click here for more information from the IRS. 
• Disaster unemployment benefits are also available to aid victims. To find out if you qualify go to https://www.usa.gov/disaster-unemployment. 

In addition, it is recommended that business owners contact their financial institutions, insurance carriers, utility providers, and other companies involved in day-to-day operations to learn about any programs or services being offered. 

State-by-State Assistance 

Florida 

• Florida Governor Ron DeSantis provides regular updates on the state website www.flgov.com regarding search and rescue services, health and human services details, infrastructure, and more. 
• FloridaDisaster.biz offers a comprehensive list of private businesses offering services and assistance for Floridians impacted by hurricanes. Small business owners can find information about internet services, store hours, etc. 
• The state of Florida provides short-term, zero interest loans to small businesses that experience financial impacts or physical damage due to storms. 

Georgia 

• The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency provides disaster assistance to those impacted by weather events. 

South Carolina 

• The Emergency Management Division of South Carolina offers assistance for individuals and businesses impacted by natural disasters. 

North Carolina 

• ReadyNC.gov provides emergency information, hurricane preparedness guides, and disaster assistance. 
• The North Carolina Department of Commerce also provides incentive information for disaster recovery. 

Small Business Loan Programs 

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses recover from declared disasters. Business are able to apply for disaster loans and obtain emergency preparedness information on the website.

Ways to Donate 

There are many ways to donate to assist those impacted by storms and other disasters.  

• The American Red Cross accepts donations to aid victims of natural disasters and other events. To donate visit www.redcross.org.  
• The Florida Disaster Fund is the state of Florida’s official private fund created to assist communities as they recover following emergencies or disasters. 
• The United Way of Florida (UWOF) Disaster Fund also provides relief to communities impacted by disasters. Donations can be made and allocated to a specific location or community.