Use Disaster Money Wisely
Release Date: June 11, 2008
Release Number: 1758-032
» More Information on Arkansas Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- As Arkansans receive disaster assistance checks, federal and state officials want to remind them to use the money carefully. Thus far, nearly $1.4 million in federal grants has been approved for those affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred from May 2 through May 12.
"It is our responsibility to help people devastated by these storms and the flooding, and, at the same time, make sure that the taxpayers' money is spent wisely," said Federal Coordinating Officer Ken Riley of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Housing Assistance funds may be used for:
- Repairs to return the home to a safe and functional condition. These may include repairs to windows, doors, water and ventilation systems, or other structural parts of a home;
- Rebuilding a home that has been completely destroyed;
- Reimbursement for hotel or motel lodging expenses directly related to the disaster; receipts for these expenses will be requested; or
- Short-term housing-Applicants who must remain in temporary housing for a longer period than the check covers may request more assistance until their home can be re-occupied or other permanent housing arrangements can be made.
Other Needs Assistance funds may be used for:
- Medical, dental and funeral expenses;
- Repair or replacement of damaged personal property, specialized tools for employment, household items, furniture, and appliances;
- Reimbursement for moving expenses and transportation costs (vehicle repair); or
- Other approved disaster-related expenses.
(important note: Receipts are required for all reimbursement expenses.)
Those who need to register for disaster assistance may call FEMA's toll-free registration number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Line are open daily from 8m. to 6 p.m. They can also register online at www.fema.gov. The deadline to register is July 21.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terrorism.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 11-Jun-2008 16:49:11