FEMA allows more time to apply for aid

Long Islanders affected by superstorm Sandy will have additional time to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Sheltering and Temporary Essential Power program.

The deadline has been extended from Dec. 31 to Jan. 18.

Through the STEP program, residents will have damage to their homes assessed, allowing contractors to perform basic repairs, such as patching windows or covering roofs with tarps. More than 2,100 Nassau residents and nearly 1,000 Suffolk residents already have signed up for the program.

In addition, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano announced in a release that he had met with FEMA and state emergency management officials Wednesday to discuss long-term Sandy recovery efforts for residential and commercial property owners, as well as for public infrastructure needs.

“Assisting residents in rebuilding their lives is our top priority as we continue to work with FEMA and the state on recovery efforts,” Mangano said in the release.

He added that he anticipates FEMA hiring “community planners,” who will visit properties in impacted neighborhoods to assess how much financial aid their owners might need for recovery and rebuilding.

Nassau officials said FEMA data indicate 72,636 people have registered for financial assistance, including 19,734 renters. Suffolk officials did not break it down but said there are 27,412 valid registrants.

SEE PHOTOSAerial views of Sandy damage

Above: An aerial view of Jones Beach in Wantagh, which was ruined by heavy winds and floodwaters brought ashore by superstorm Sandy. (Oct. 31, 2012)