Mayor establishes emergency rentals for Sandy victims

Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced a plan on December 7 to make a pool of vacant apartments available solely for those displaced by Hurricane Sandy.

Working with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan, Department of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Mathew Wambua and Director of Housing Recovery Operations Brad Gair, the mayor has arranged for displaced households to be able to register with the city for assistance in finding temporary or long-term housing.

Leaders of the city’s major real estate trade organizations have helped set aside thousands of apartments in all five boroughs over the coming months to lease to victims. These apartments may be either market-rate or income-restricted, depending on the household’s needs.

Those displaced can create an account on the New York City Housing Recovery online portal to learn about housing options and find assistance pursuing their own housing.

“Thousands of New Yorkers can’t live in their homes, either due to severe structural damage, or a lack of heat and electricity,” said Bloomberg. “As we work to repair those damaged homes as quickly as possible, we are also working to connect people to housing options that fit their individual needs. This program will help New Yorkers who need a safe, warm place to stay, especially as the cold weather sets in.”

On the local front, State Senator Marty Golden has been working with Brooklyn Housing and Family Services to help displaced families find housing.

“They have been instrumental in meeting with us and with the Marine Park Gardens Apartments,” said John Quaglione, Golden’s deputy chief of staff, adding that the Gardens have lifted the non-rental clause to make more units available for about 70 households.

Just after the storm hit, Golden also worked with local real estate agents, who have “stepped up the plate” and eliminated fees, such as security deposits.

“We continue to advocate for co-ops and condo boards to help those looking to rent. The last thing you want to do is see people homeless from a hurricane,” Quaglione said. “If anyone out there is looking for housing, by all means please contact our office.”

Displaced residents should register online with FEMA or by calling 1-800-621-3362 to get a FEMA registration number and a determination letter stating that they are eligible for FEMA rental assistance.

If a household does not qualify for FEMA, they can still register at NYC Housing Recovery, although option may be limited.

Once registered, victims can go to www.nyc.gov to find out more about Housing Recovery and where they can register with the city’s online portal, complete a profile and begin the detailed process.

Those without internet access can call 3-1-1 to be directed to storm housing representatives available 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. People can also go to any of the city’s restoration centers where representatives are on hand for assistance.