COCOA, Fla. — A new disaster recovery center has opened in Brevard County as a one-stop shop for people navigating both FEMA assistance and SBA loans.

This comes just after President Joe Biden declared several Central Florida counties disaster areas following Hurricane Nicole.

Previously, only victims of Hurricane Ian were able to apply for relief, but with Biden's declaration, assistance has opened to victims from Nicole.

The center, located at the University of Florida Brevard County Extension Center in Cocoa, is intended to help victims of Hurricane Nicole.

“Everybody was extremely helpful offering suggestions and helping us get all the forms completed,” said Robert Simpson, a Brevard County resident who went to the center for help.

Assistance for those impacted by Hurricane Ian is still available, and those who have yet to apply can head to any disaster recovery center to receive help.

FEMA spokesperson Kim Fuller said that for residents who applied for assistance a few weeks ago but haven’t heard back, it may be a good time to circle back around.

“Please stay in touch with FEMA, that’s the big thing,” Fuller said. “If you have not heard from us in about two weeks, then that’s too long. Make sure you give us a phone call.”

The Small Business Administration is also at the new DRC, and experts say loans are available to renters and homeowners, not just businesses.

Officials say it’s important to follow up on loan applications all the way through the process, as both FEMA and SBA work hand-in-hand.

“If FEMA refers you to SBA, be sure to get that application in — and it doesn’t mean you have to take the loan,” said SBA spokesperson Mary Bradfield​. “If we cannot get you a loan, we may send you back to FEMA.”

In turn, officials said FEMA may then be able to provide an applicant with the assistance they were unable to get approval for a loan.

There are several disaster recovery centers located throughout Central Florida. Find the closest one near you here.