I originally reached out to the Mayor's office on October 18, 2018 via Facebook messenger. They responded immediately and was very open to answering my questions about their experience. Keisha Lugo from the Office of Communications provided answers to my questions on November 6, 2018. Yabucoa was the first town hit by Hurricane Maria, and was said to have faced the most damage.

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What kind of damage did Yabucoa see after Hurricane Maria?

 

Destruction to buildings, collapse of energy systems and drinking water, damage to service facilities, residences, and failed communication systems.

 

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How long did the application process to apply for FEMA's public assistance?

 

The process started around two weeks ago [Oct. 23], and we are still in that process. 

 

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Was the application easy to understand?

 

It was easy to understand.

 

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How did you find or access the application?

 

It was given to us by the FEMA officials.

 

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How quickly did you receive funding for the recovery process after submitting your application for public assistance?

 

About a month to receive a minimum advance to start the work ... (Note: They stated they started the process about two weeks ago, and are still in it. My assumption is that the funding they have received was emergency response funding, not recovery funds.)

 

 

Was FEMA helpful in answering your questions regarding the public assistance process and application?

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Yes.