Elevate Florida Launches Statewide to Strengthen Home Resilience Against Natural Disasters
The Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) has introduced "Elevate Florida," a newly funded statewide initiative to enhance community resilience by mitigating private residences against natural hazards. The program is designed to reduce the risk of property damage due to natural disasters by focusing on three primary strategies: elevation, reconstruction, and acquisition of residential properties.
Under the program, existing homes can be physically raised using approved methods to minimize future flood risks. Additionally, homes partially or entirely destroyed by past disasters may be eligible for reconstruction, with improved, elevated designs to prevent future damage. For properties that cannot be effectively elevated or rebuilt, local communities may acquire the structures from voluntary sellers and demolish them to reduce hazard exposure.
The program rollout is particularly significant for areas like Manatee County, which have faced severe impacts from storms Helene and Milton. Many residents still struggle to rebuild or fortify their homes due to limited resources. Elevate Florida provides a vital opportunity to address these challenges and support long-term community recovery.
FDEM has outlined a multi-stage process for participation, including application submission, review, approval, and construction. Homeowners can begin preparing their applications by compiling relevant documentation such as photos of prior flood damage, insurance claims, repair receipts, and disaster-related assistance records.
The County Administrator has been informed of the program's importance and is preparing staff to assist residents in navigating the application process when it officially launches. More details on eligibility and the application timeline are expected soon.
For additional information and to stay updated on the program’s progress, residents are encouraged to visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/ResidentialMitigation.
