As other Florida residents prepare for the storm, one Pasco County family that was forced from their home because of the recent floods is finally into a home.
- Jasmine Rivera, family in new home
- They were displaced by Hurricane Hermine
- FEMA doing housing inspections in affected areas
Things are looking up for the Rivera family. "They have a trundle bed that was given to us by the Salvation Army," said Jasmine Rivera, giving a tour of her new home.
The family of six was forced out of their Elfers home during Hurricane Hermine. They were rescued by good Samaritans by boat.
"It was one of the hardest, most scariest things, and it impacts the children," Rivera said.
Since then, the Rivera's have called a shelter and two motels home. But now they have something of their own. They are renting a new place in New Port Richey.
"Yes, we can sleep in beds, yes we can get up and not have to worry ‘Are they giving the continental breakfast or did we miss it,'" said Rivera.
Related: Hurricane Hermine's final stats
Related: Track Hurricane Matthew
The family has been getting comfortable there for the past week. They even have a new dog -- named Odie -- they adopted while they were at the shelter.
Through it all, River said she’s tried to remain calm and strong for her four children. “With everything we've lost we've not only come closer, but we've gained an extra family member now."
Now this family can truly begin to rebuild.
FEMA has started doing housing inspections in the counties affected by Hermine. The Rivera’s said they already had their home visit.
As a reminder, FEMA says always ask to see photo ID to prevent fraud.