Two Disaster Recovery Centers To Open  

Release Date: May 28, 2004
Release Number: 1518-003

» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

URBANDALE, Iowa -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Iowa Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HLSEM) will open two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) this weekend. In an effort to speed assistance to Iowa residents affected by the recent severe storms, flooding and tornadoes, the Clayton County DRC will open on Saturday, May 29 and the Buchanan County DRC will open on Sunday, May 30. They will be located at:

Clayton County
Clayton County Fairgrounds
Highway 52
National, Iowa

Open Saturday, May 29, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
After Saturday open:
8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily until further notice

Open Memorial Day
Buchanan County
Falcon Community Center
1305 5th Ave. N.E.
Independence, Iowa

Open Sunday, May 30, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
After Sunday open:
Monday -Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sundays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Open Memorial Day

Disaster Recovery Centers are designed to provide detailed program information to those who have already applied for assistance under President Bush's May 25 disaster declaration for the state of Iowa. Representatives of state, federal, and voluntary agencies will be present, including loan officers from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Before coming to the DRC, applicants are encouraged to apply by using the FEMA toll-free registration number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number is 1-800-462-7585 for those who are speech- or hearing-impaired. Recovery specialists are available to take calls from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., CDT, seven days a week until further notice. These centers can help area residents affected by the recent storms.

The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division was known as the Iowa Emergency Management Division until July 2003. The current name reflects the dual nature of the Division to provide programs and resources for both homeland security and emergency management efforts.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Friday, 28-May-2004 15:15:29