More than a year after back-to-back hurricanes struck the Tampa Bay area, homeowners lined up Monday outside the Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library for Hillsborough County’s disaster-recovery intake session.

The county’s Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program is helping residents determine whether they qualify for financial assistance, with some homeowners potentially eligible for up to $100,000 in home-repairs or flood-relief grants.

Many Hillsborough County residents are still dealing with damaged roofs, walls, and flooded interiors caused by storm damage. One applicant, Tom Rumore, said his insurance won’t cover his roof damage, and he cannot renew his coverage until repairs are completed.

County officials report seeing a dramatic increase in demand this year. “This year the number has increased exponentially, being that we are on the heels of two hurricanes,” said Tramaine Whittey with Hillsborough County Affordable Housing Services.

To qualify for the program, applicants must live in single-family homes that have been their primary residence for at least two years and meet income requirements. During Monday’s session, homeowners met with staff to review paperwork and check eligibility.

For some residents, this represents their first opportunity for meaningful assistance. Applicant Sherril Johnson said she had tried multiple other programs before finding this one.

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