FEMA at Pine Island Library helping people impacted by Ian

Reporter: Michelle Alvarez Writer: Paul Dolan
Published: Updated:
A house damaged by Hurricane Ian on Pine Island. (CREDIT: WINK News)

FEMA spent Friday with people in Southwest Florida who lost a lot from Hurricane Ian.

FEMA was set up inside the Pine Island Library, helping to coordinate disaster relief needs. They’re recommending that people apply online if you’re able to do that.

They’ve had some internet issues throughout the day, but they are at the library to offer help to those impacted by Hurricane Ian.

Matlacha and Pine Island are some of the areas that were affected most by Hurricane Ian. FEMA was set up inside to assist those with disaster relief needs.

Many residents who live in the area want answers on what the latest is in terms of recovery and how long it will take to get basic services back.

An area on Pine Island that suffered considerable damages from the storm. (CREDIT: WINK News)

Two people going to the library to see FEMA were Pine Island residents Elizabeth Berry and her husband.

“Can’t say realistically what we’re even looking for. we’ve been in the dark so much we don’t know,” Elizabeth said.

Elizabeth told WINK News they’re looking for any help they can get. FEMA did have internet issues on Friday so they told people to call instead.

A house on Pine Island with a friendly reminder to those passing by. (CREDIT: WINK News)

Another resident, John Ranno, who lives in Saint James City, has been having issues with his roof, so he stoped by the library to talk to FEMA.

“He said call this phone number and talk to them, but wait till like six or something when it is not so busy,” Ranno said. “Give them all the information you would’ve given me, and then you will be on the FEMA list.”

“Where am I going to go? I have nowhere to go, so I’m going to stay there, but, this month will be tough. I don’t even know what’s in the bank account anymore, no internet, but we’ll make it, always do,” Ranno said.

FEMA will be at the Pine Island Library every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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