Transform386’s Support Brings Deltona Resident Back Home Post-Ian

In a celebration of resilience and community support, Volusia County's Transform386 program participated in a ceremonial welcome-home party on Wednesday, February 28, for Deltona resident Sabine Mathieu, marking a significant milestone in her journey to recovery following Hurricane Ian's devastating impact. Through a collaborative effort, Mathieu's home is now habitable again, showcasing the strength and effectiveness of community-based disaster recovery initiatives.

A message from Mathieu was shared with the attendees during the ceremony. She expressed, "This repair process was a partnership and collaborative, and we worked together and always tried to find the best solution."

SBP provided Mathieu with a bridge loan through its Florida Recovery Acceleration Fund (RAF), a social impact investment designed to assist disaster survivors in need of home repairs. With her home repairs completed, Mathieu is set to apply for reimbursement through Transform386's Hurricane Ian Homeowner Recovery program. 

"This journey of recovery we're on with our residents is a testament to what can be achieved when government, nonprofits, and communities collaborate with a shared vision of resilience and renewal," said Transform386 Director Dona Butler. "Every application we receive is a story of strength and hope, and we're here to support those stories, ensuring they have the happy ending our residents deserve."

The Transform386 Hurricane Ian Homeowner Recovery program offers aid to homeowners affected by the storm, covering repair costs and providing reimbursement for those who have already undertaken repairs. Since its launch in November, the program has received over 1,000 applications. Out of these, staff have so far confirmed that more than 200 meet the income eligibility criteria, with other applications still under review. Impacted residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible due to the high demand for assistance, though no specific deadline has been set.

Transform386 is funded by a Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Impacted homeowners can apply online and learn more about the qualifications and benefits of the Transform386 program by visiting www.transform386.org or calling 386-943-7029.