General government-based assistance
- Legal hotline for NJ residents needing legal assistance after #Sandy.
1-888-541-1900 or probono_public_service/ls_pb_hurricane_sandy_fema_new_jersey.authcheckdam.pdf - A special Federal Government website is set up to process Sandy requests http://www.disasterassistance.gov. It consolidates the application process across several Federal agencies, including FEMA and the Small Business Administration and reduces the number of forms applicants will need to fill out and you can check the progress of your applications online. You can also apply at
- 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362) or fema.gov
- via smartphone at m.fema.gov
- Speech disability or hearing loss
TTY 1-800-462-7585
711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) 1-800-621-3362
Financial assistance and grants
Look into applying for a Lion Clubs International direct grant or see what your local club has to offer. FEMA assistance and how to apply5. Operation Hope
Financial dignity nonprofit Operation HOPE offers financial triage, financial recovery and free consultation services for individuals and small business owners impacted by Hurricane Sandy. More information here
6. Disaster SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) Information (aka Foodstamps)
SNAP Handbook Guide
b. D-SNAP Toolkit: SNAP Guidance Toolkit.pdf
Health issues
The New Jersey Department of Health has public health experts available through the state’s 2-1-1 system to answer questions about food and water safety and mold removal. To reach public health experts, call 211 or 1-866-234-0964, or visit them online at nj211.org. Experts are available 8am-8pm weekdays and 10am-5pm weekends. More than 800 New Jersey residents have called the Department of Health hotline seeking help with food and drinking water safety, mold removal and prevention of carbon monoxide poisoning. The 211 number is open for general enquiries 24/7.