After the storm: housing, mental health, money
After the danger passes, start with a safe place to stay, then apply for FEMA and other aid, replace lost documents, and get support for stress; it's free.
Once the immediate danger passes, the hard part is often figuring out where to live, how to pay for things and how to cope. These pages cover the official programs that can help, in plain language, with no sales pitch.
- Housing after a disasterFEMA rental and lodging help, shelters, renting, tenant basics, mortgage help
- Mental health after a disasterDisaster Distress Helpline, 988, helping kids, crisis counseling
- Money, food and documents after a disasterD-SNAP, unemployment, replacing IDs, avoiding scams
Also useful
- How to apply for FEMA help
- Find shelter
- Free food and water
- Insurance photo checklist
- The first 48 hours
Every program and phone number on this page was checked against the official agency page linked next to it on Oct. 10, 2026. Programs depend on disaster declarations and can change; confirm on the official page before you act.
Common questions
Where do I start after a disaster?
Make sure everyone is safe and has a place to stay tonight, through a shelter, 211 or family. Then document damage, file insurance claims, and apply to FEMA if your county is declared.
Who can I talk to if I'm overwhelmed?
Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990, any time, or call or text 988.