Effective August 29, homeowners impacted by the flooding in Louisiana can apply for Shelter at Home. This is a new program, announced by Gov. John Bell Edwards last week that allows flood victims to live at home while they continue to rebuild, rather than stay at a hotel, shelter or rental property.

If a damaged home can be made livable with up to $15,000 in repairs, then the state will provide a crew to do the work on the property.

The program is not intended to cover the cost of a full rebuild of a home and will only cover minor repair work such as basic electrical and plumbing inspections; carpet and insulation removal; air conditioning and hot water heater repairs; and installing temporary bathroom fixtures. The program will also pay for small kitchen appliances.

Residents eligible for the program can call 1-800-927-0216 or register online at shelterathome.la.gov.