Disaster Funds Authorized For Virgin Islands Flood Recovery 

Release Date: December 9, 2003
Release Number: HQ-03-249

» More Information on US Virgin Islands Flooding Rains

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that President Bush has authorized the use of federal disaster funds for the U.S. Virgin Islands to help local governments recover from the effects of flooding rains that struck the territory last month.

Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said the President took the action under a major disaster declaration issued today following a review of FEMA’s analysis of the territory’s request for federal assistance. The declaration covers damage to public property from severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred over the period of November 10-16.

Following the President’s action, Brown designated the territory and affected local governments on the islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas eligible for federal funding to pay 75 percent of the approved costs for debris removal, emergency services related to the disaster, and the restoration of damaged public facilities. Federal funds also will be available to the territorial government on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks.

Brown indicated that additional forms of assistance may be designated later if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. He named Brad Gair of FEMA to coordinate the federal relief effort.

Gair said that procedures for requesting assistance will be explained at a series of applicant briefings at locations to be announced shortly in the affected area.

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: Tuesday, 09-Dec-2003 17:01:43