This article was originally published in The Examiner on October 12, 2017.
By Eleanor Skelton
Staff Writer
Hurricane Harvey survivors who need more time to find housing are getting an extension to stay temporarily in hotels while they look for an alternative place to live, FEMA officials announced Oct. 8.
The Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, which pays for short-term hotel stays, has been extended by 14 days. The new checkout date is Oct. 24. Participants eligible to continue in the program will receive a phone call telling them what they need to do to remain at their current hotel or find a new hotel. Applicants must meet certain requirements to remain eligible.
Hurricane Harvey survivors who are not currently in the program but who may be eligible are notified automatically. TSA participants must be registered with FEMA for disaster assistance.
FEMA pays directly for the room and any applicable taxes. Applicants are responsible for all other incidental costs (meals, transportation, etc.).
Hotels may require a credit card for incidental expenses.
Eleanor Skelton 