Broome and Chenango Counties Designated For Federal Disaster Assistance For Individuals
Release Date: December 22, 2006
Release Number: 1670 -001
» More Information on New York Severe Storms and Flooding
ALBANY, N.Y. -- Federal disaster assistance for Broome and Chenango counties has been expanded to include aid for homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the November 16-17 severe storms and flooding in New York, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.
Marianne C. Jackson, federal coordinating officer for FEMA, said the additional assistance was approved based on a review of damage data gathered by federal, state and local disaster specialists.
“We are committed to helping every qualified individual, family and business,” Jackson said.
There are two easy ways to begin the application process. Those affected can call FEMA’s toll-free registration number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The hearing and speech impaired can call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday, December 23 and Sunday, December 24. Closed Christmas Day. The registration lines will be open again Tuesday, December 26 through Saturday, December 30 from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Residents with Internet access may also register for disaster assistance on the agency’s website at www.fema.gov where valuable recovery information is also available.
Jackson said calling these numbers is the only way to register for a wide range of federal disaster assistance programs that can include funding for temporary disaster housing assistance, U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and business owners to repair or replace real or personal property and housing repair; replacement grants to help meet serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs; and disaster unemployment assistance.
FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, an applicant must complete an SBA loan application to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.
Callers are advised to have the following information available to help speed up the application process:
- Your current address and phone number;
- The address of the damaged property;
- Your Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses you suffered;
- If insured, your insurance policy number, or the agent's and company name.
FEMA disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, contact your insurance agent first. Then contact FEMA to register for assistance that may help pay for basic needs not covered under your insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans. The FEMA representative will explain the details to you when you call.
Broome and Chenango counties were previously designated for disaster assistance to government entities.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident, initiates mitigation activities and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA works closely with state and local emergency managers, law enforcement personnel, firefighters and other first responders. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Saturday, 23-Dec-2006 21:19:07