BATON ROUGE - FEMA has approved the state's request to extend the deadline to apply for the Shelter at Home program to October 21.

The Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says the need to extend the deadline was noticeable after hundreds of Louisiana flood survivors registered for the program during the last week.

As of Friday, GOHSEP says the number of Shelter at Home applicants has climbed to 20,897.

6,512 homes already enrolled in the program are in progress. 2,590 are complete, and 3,451 need a final inspection before construction is complete.

"We want to ensure that all survivors of the flood are given a reasonable amount of time to take part in this program," GOHSEP Director James Waskom said. "This has been a very difficult time for anyone impacted by the flooding. Due to issues such as cleaning, temporary relocation and other factors, some people may finally be at a point to consider the Shelter at Home program. It is important for us to allow them the time needed to make their plans. We appreciate FEMA granting the state's request for a deadline extension."

Homeowners need to provide contractors with proof of ownership, proof of residency, state issued ID and a signed and completed Right of Entry and Indemnification form before a contractor can begin the temporary repairs.

GOHSEP reminds flood survivors that this registration is separate from registering for FEMA assistance.

Applicants may be eligible for the Shelter and Home Program if up to $15,000 in repairs can be made while a safe, secure and habitable living environment is maintained while they continue their permanent home rebuilding.

Contractors and subcontractors involved in the program will perform initial work such as mucking out the house, basic electrical restoration, installing a basic water heater, removing wet wall insulation, and providing up to $500 in basic cooking or refrigerating appliance. This work will be provided at no out-of pocket cost to the homeowner.

This assistance will not affect determination of any Individual Assistance grant from FEMA.

Eligible residents interested in the program can apply by calling 1-800-928-0216, or by clicking here. Anyone using the online system must call the 800 number to speak with a case manager and have their documents uploaded and added to their file.

FEMA representatives are still available at FEMA Recovery Centers during the next two weeks. The closest DRC can be found here.