Mass. Disaster Aid Surpasses $2.3 Million
Release Date: May 26, 2004
Release Number: 1512-027
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BEVERLY, Mass. – More than $2.3 million in state and federal aid has been approved for Bay State residents and businesses since April’s severe rains flooded thousands of area basements and resulted in a federal disaster declaration.
Disaster assistance in Massachusetts at-a-glance:
- To date, 1,611 applicants have registered for state and FEMA aid by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing or speech impaired. Registration lines are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both the registration and Helpline will be closed on Memorial Day - Monday, May 31.
- Of the five counties declared eligible for assistance by President Bush on April 22, Essex County has reported 943 aid requests, Middlesex at 488, Norfolk at 37, Suffolk with 83, and Worcester County reporting 53.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration has issued more than 1,450 applications to individuals and businesses. More than $109,200 has been approved in loans.
- More than $2 million has been approved for Disaster Housing assistance grants to help with temporary housing and essential home repair.
- More than $156,000 has been approved for Other Needs Assistance grants to help meet essential needs not covered by insurance or other programs.
- FEMA inspectors have completed 1,464 on-site inspections to assess damage losses reported by applicants.
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: Wednesday, 26-May-2004 11:42:31