FEMA trailers for those impacted by Hurricane Michael arrive in Marianna
Rather than arriving in large waves, these units are instead trickling in to the staging site in
"This is a staging area where
Each inspection checks for defects and lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
"This is part of the direct housing that we provide," said Custer. "Bare in mind, though, this is temporary."
People staying in federally sponsored housing will be matched with a
"People need to be working on a long term recovery plan to get back fully on their feet, to have repairs made, to make whatever long term housing arrangements."
Custer said local governments have waived zoning restrictions that previously barred residents from keeping travel trailers and mobile homes in their yards.
"What we're trying to do for those deemed eligible is put it right on their property, on their lot," he said. "If the debris can be cleared out of the way then presumably there are utilities that are working. So it's the easiest approach to locate these and to get them up and running."
These units are one element of interim housing provided by
The field next to the
Units will be assigned to families following evaluations and interviews.
"Everyone's housing situation is a little bit different so you can't make a blanket statement about these," he said.
Travel trailers began arriving at the staging area on Wednesday. According to Custer, many trailers are coming from vendors in
"These aren't going to be luxurious units," he said. "But they're going to be functional and equipped with a sprinkler system, smoke detector ... the basic necessities."
Each unit will undergo a small process for flattening the lot, if necessary, and for utility installation. None of the units will be placed in flood-prone areas.
For people still needing assistance for issues not covered by insurance, Custer recommends homeowners and renters apply for SBA loans, which can provide low interest loans for up to 30 years.
"For people that get a
The deadline to fill out an SBA loan is
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