Pasco County is preparing to launch a hurricane relief program funded by a $585 million federal Community Development Block Grant awarded following last year’s hurricane season. More than half of the funding will go directly to homeowners unable to make essential storm-related repairs.

The Better Future Individual Housing Program is scheduled to open for applications in December and is designed specifically for Pasco County residents affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Qualified homeowners may receive funding for repairs already completed, repairs still needed, or other storm-related expenses.

Chuck Lane, the county’s director of Disaster Recovery Resources, said officials are prioritizing displaced residents and those who saw devastation countywide. County officials are hosting informational meetings this week to explain eligibility requirements and covered expenses.

The program aims to help residents who struggled to receive assistance through other channels. One homeowner, Christopher Rosakranse, whose property sustained damage from downed trees and flooding just two months after purchasing his home, said he was unable to secure FEMA help despite repeated attempts.

For information about public meetings or the application process, residents can visit the county’s Better Future website at pascocountyfl.gov.

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