Last day to apply for hurricane recovery aid for Lee County homeowners

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

Lee County homeowners affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton have until the end of Tuesday, March 31, to apply for financial assistance through the LeeCares housing program.

The program offers funding to income-eligible residents to repair, replace or rebuild homes damaged during the 2024 storms. Applications submitted by the deadline will still be reviewed for eligibility and potential awards.

The program is funded through a federal disaster recovery grant. The deadline applies only to Helene and Milton-related damage, as the Hurricane Ian application period closed in December.

Meanwhile, the Lee Board of County Commissioners has opened a 30-day public comment period on proposed changes to its disaster recovery funding plans.

The county previously received $1.1 billion for Hurricane Ian recovery and about $100.7 million for Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This would allow officials to shift funds between programs to address gaps and include additional funding for repairs to the Blind Pass Bridge, a key access point on Captiva Island.

Commissioners also approved up to $20 million in funding to support the construction of 230 affordable rental units in Fort Myers.

Officials stress that today is the final chance for eligible homeowners to apply for LeeCares assistance. Click here to apply.

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