BRACE, FEMA sign agreement donating FEMA homes to BRACE



The Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) announced the launch of Mission Homeward Bound, a community-based initiative to assist families in FEMA temporary housing after FEMA’s Oct. 31 housing deadline.

Mission Homeward Bound is a community based initiative. Volunteer Florida Foundation, United Way of Escambia County and Neighborhood Enterprise Foundation, Inc. have made it possible for BRACE to partner with member organizations through Mission Homeward Bound to continue temporary housing of Hurricane Ivan survivors for up to an additional year. 
 
BRACE wishes to thank funding organizations for their generous support:
Volunteer Florida Foundation - $160,000
United Way of Escambia County - $30,000
Neighborhood Enterprise Foundation, Inc. - $190,000

BRACE took donation of 215 FEMA mobile homes and travel trailers and assumed full financial responsibility for the units.  Catholic Charities extended their Homeward Bound program to assist families in the units in preparing for ownership of the home they occupy or finding other forms of permanent housing.  Meco Properties Inc. serves as property manager for the program.

After Hurricane Ivan, Escambia County had nearly 3,500 families housed in FEMA mobile homes and travel trailers—over 1,200 more than any other county in Florida after the 2004 hurricanes.  Through the dedicated efforts of the local community and state and FEMA partners, over 95% of those in FEMA temporary housing have returned to permanent housing.

Escambia County had 215 families who remained in FEMA provided temporary housing units after Hurricane Ivan. While some moved into permanent housing prior to Oct. 31, other families still needed additional assistance.

The total cost of the program is approximately $600,000.  Although families are expected to contribute a portion of this amount in relatively low monthly rent, the balance must be funded through public and private support.  NEFI, Catholic Charities, Escambia County, City of Pensacola, United Way of Escambia, Volunteer Florida Foundation and FEMA provided initial support to make the program possible.  The balance will need to be funded through public and private support. If you or your organization is interested in supporting BRACE and the Mission Homeward Bound program, contact us at 850-444-7135.