Frustration mounts a year on from Hurricane Sandy

A US flag is seen outside a home devastated by the effects of Hurricane Sandy Credit: Reuters

Exactly one year on from Hurricane Sandy, many who lost their homes and businesses are still waiting for help.

The natural disaster caused widespread destruction and damage across 24 states in the US.

When Sandy hit America's East Coast, those who lost everything were promised help and support.

However some claim they have received neither as ITV News' Washington Correspondent Robert Moore reports:

President Obama and Governor Chris Christie won widespread praise for their leadership in response to the disaster, with many commentators suggesting the response helped President Obama win a second term in office.

However, some now feel disappointed and angry by the delays in the recovery.

Read: President Obama tours storm-hit areas of New York

The cost of the disaster has reached $68 billion and is still climbing.

Despite an influx of federal and state aid in the wake of the disaster, some survivors still remain homeless.

Neighbours Lucille Dwyer and Linda Strong embrace after looking through the wreckage of their homes Credit: Reuters

Residents say they feel abandoned, with one survivor urging the government not to forget that there are still victims out there.

Maria McQuarrie, who is living in a trailer adjacent to the ruins of her home, said:

"We can't even cry anymore. All the tears have gone. We are so tired. When this first happened we thought that in a few months we would be back into our houses. A year later, we didn't even move anywhere."

A home destroyed and abandoned after Hurricane Sandy Credit: Reuters

Read: Star-studded concert raises Hurricane Sandy funds

Men walk through flooding left by the storm surge of Superstorm Sandy last year Credit: Reuters

Business owner Gigi Liaguno-Dorr laid the blame firmly at the door or the politicians and insurance executives:

"How these people lay their heads on their pillows at night and know they are doing this to people is beyond anything I can comprehend."

Read: Heroic NYPD cop dies saving family from flooding