Pajaro residents whose property was lost or damaged in last March’s floods can now apply for financial assistance through Monterey County. That includes any food spoilage during evacuations.
Residents can receive between $200 to $600 via gift card to compensate for food spoilage, specifically.
There is also funding available for vehicle repair and replacement, personal property damage and losses, housing assistance (for expenses incurred between March 10 and May 15, 2023) and home repair.
Amounts depend and will be determined based on other benefits already received and documentation of ownership and impact, including photos, insurance claims and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) letters.
Residents must apply in person at a Monterey County center located at Pajaro Park (24 San Juan Rd, Pajaro). You’ll have to bring identification, proof of residency in Pajaro as of March 10, 2023 and evidence of financial need, along with any documentation of damages.
Proof of residency documents include:
- Current lease agreement in applicant’s name.
- Other rental agreement in applicant’s name.
- Written affidavit from the landlord.
- Mortgage paperwork such as a current mortgage statement or tax assessor’s statement.
- Utility bills or other mail.
- Affidavit from a roommate confirming a shared housing situation.
But Mindy Esqueda from the county said during a press briefing that they’re flexible on documentation.
“Just present anything — any and all information — and then the case manager will work with each family on a case-by-case basis,” Esqueda said.
The center and application period will be open from March 27 to April 27.
Opening hours:
- Closed Sunday and Monday
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Thursday and Friday: 2-7 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The county has a FAQ page with more information on its emergency website.
There’s also a program for Pajaro small businesses to get reimbursed for damages. That’s being overseen by the Monterey County Workforce Development Board.
During a press briefing, Vanessa Kor from the board said they have $3.7 million to aid in damage reimbursement, from equipment losses to re-beautification due to property damage to storefronts.
“Businesses that are applying, we are asking that they assist us with submitting proofs of payment for eligible expenses to have that as a supporting document,” Kor said. “Storefront businesses are eligible to apply for up to $85,000, while home-based businesses can apply for up to $5,000.”
The applications are both online:
However, you can also call to schedule an in-person appointment at the Pajaro Park county center between March and April 27:
- English: 1-888-451-4649
- Spanish: 1-888-807-0790
Business owners must be a resident of Monterey County or live within 20 miles of the county border in order to be eligible for the reimbursement. More information on that program, including required documentation, is available on the workforce development board’s website.
