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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) — Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Thursday that an additional $7.8 million from the state’s Disaster Fund will be allocated to communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

According to a press release from the governor’s office, the amount includes $500,000 to support school district foundations for teachers and staff whose tireless efforts helped schools reopen just days after the storms.

This sum is provided in addition to the $750,000 that school districts have already received.

The press release also said that $300,000 will also be awarded to Florida’s first responders for their assistance, accompanying the $400,000 previously granted.

“Florida sees disaster recovery through to the end, and thanks to our state’s good financial standing, we are able to help those who were devastated by hurricanes this year,” DeSantis said.

Additionally, $7 million was awarded to help residents repair and rebuild homes damaged by the storms.

Following Hurricane Ian in 2022, similar housing repair awards were given, which led to the restoration of over 1,250 homes.