After Superstorm Sandy, New York to spend $300 million to help owners raise homes

FREEPORT -- New York has committed to spending up to $300 million to help homeowners affected by Superstorm Sandy and other storms elevate their homes to protect against the next flood.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the plan Wednesday at a home on Long Island that was devastated by the 2012 superstorm.

Under the program, eligible homeowners can seek state financial assistance for the costs of elevating their homes.

Cuomo says homeowners can learn a lesson from Sandy by rebuilding their homes higher than they were before - so they won't experience the same level of damage in the next storm.

Nearly 6,600 homeowners are eligible for the program.