SOUTHWEST FLORIDA - A Call for Action from our viewers: Tropical Storm Fay flooded parts of Southwest Florida forcing hundreds of people out of their homes and into shelters. Since then, many viewers have called our newsroom or sent e-mails asking if undocumented immigrants will receive federal aid. WINK News has learned the answer is yes, sometimes.

A FEMA Spokesman tells WINK News undocumented immigrants can receive federal aid if a child is a U.S. citizen. It's been agency policy for a number of years.

FEMA Spokesperson William Lindsey says, "If there's someone who lives there like a child who has a social security number the parent can file under the child's social security number."

An undocumented who asked not to be identified says many will not apply out of fear, "They feel afraid because they have to give personal information out they're more at risk for getting caught by immigration and getting deported."

The idea of idea of undocumented immigrants receiving federal aid is sparking mixed emotions in Southwest Florida.

Sandra Berkshire says,"I couldn't possibly say not to let a child have the benefits of it."

Mary Clutz disagrees saying, "I feel sorry for people like that but what are you going to do when so many of our people are legal don't get help."

There are other misconceptions about FEMA aid. If you have insurance you should still apply for FEMA Aid because it could help pay for what insurance doesn't cover. You need to apply as soon as possible. You may be eligible for aid if you're a renter. You don't need to wait to clean up before an inspector comes to your home.

To apply, call 1-800-621-FEMA. Expect the call to take about 20 minutes.