Disaster Recovery Centers Important Applicant Resource
Release Date: January 7, 2005
Release Number: 1539-340
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) operated by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) are an important resource for disaster recovery information and services for those affected by the hurricanes that struck Florida during the 2004 season.
One of the primary functions available at a DRC is an opportunity for the applicant to meet personally with a disaster assistance specialist who has answers to most questions. Many times, what may have been an overwhelming problem or situation for the applicant is addressed quickly and efficiently.
The DRC can assist applicants who need to have their files updated. Whether it means a change in address, family structure, new contact phone number or other valuable information, the disaster assistance specialist can forward this information to the applicant’s file. If the applicant has been provided with a temporary housing rental grant and needs an extension, the DRC can conduct a recertification interview and, once again, do so on a one-to-one personal level.
The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has loan officers present at all DRCs, ready to assist with the disaster loan application process. SBA representatives can answer questions about the disaster loan program, provide applications and give the applicant any extra help they may need or want with completing the forms. Loan officers are there to guide them through the entire process. Completed loan packets may be dropped off at a DRC.
For homeowners and business owners with damaged or destroyed real property, information and assistance is available from mitigation specialists at the DRC. In addition to providing the applicant with printed guidelines and instructions on building a disaster-resistant home and other structures, these specialists can also address specific construction questions that an applicant may have.
Occasionally, applicants need answers to questions that cannot be answered at a DRC. When this happens, the disaster assistance specialist has the information needed to refer applicants to the organization or agency that can help them.
Many times, an applicant can get the same disaster information or service available at a DRC by calling the FEMA help line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) from their home or business. It is up to the applicant to use either service to get help with their disaster-related questions or concerns. Individuals and business owners with damages and losses from the recent hurricanes are urged to register for assistance before going to a DRC by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number for speech- or hearing-impaired individuals is 1-800-462?7585. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 9, 2005, both numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. The application deadline is Feb. 28, 2005.
Floridians may also register for assistance online. Those with access to a computer should enter the FEMA website at http://www.fema.gov. Look for and click on the words “Register for Disaster Assistance Online” located in the right-hand column under “Spotlight”.
FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 01-Feb-2005 09:13:07