Its Not Too Late To Register
Release Date: March 3, 2008
Release Number: 1746-007
» More Information on Kentucky Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Straight-line Winds, and Flooding
LEXINGTON, Ky. -- Anyone in Kentucky who was affected by tornadoes and other severe weather of Feb. 5-6 is encouraged to register for assistance as soon as possible. Being proactive and taking charge can help speed the possibility of receiving federal and state disaster aid.
Federal assistance totaling $511,659 has been approved for those who have registered and found to be eligible for assistance. Of that, $176,603 has been disbursed through FEMA's Individuals and Households Program for housing assistance, including rental assistance and repairs to homes for eligible applicants. Of the total distributed so far, $48,807 was granted under FEMA's Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program. Those funds are set aside to cover expenses such as medical, dental, funeral and personal property.
- Register as soon as possible. Homeowners, renters, and business owners who suffered losses must call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) tele-registration line to register for assistance at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or, for the hearing- and speech-impaired, TTY 800-462-7585, or go online at www.fema.gov.
- Register, even if you are insured. Your insurance coverage may not be adequate and some foundation damage may not show up until later. Anyone who suffered any damage or loss should register for assistance.
- Remember, disaster assistance covers a wide range of losses. Disaster-related damage or loss of essential personal property, anything from a wheelchair to a major appliance, may qualify for some form of federal/state assistance.
- Stay in touch and keep appointments. After you have registered for disaster assistance, a FEMA inspector will make an appointment to visit your home, usually within two to three days. Make every effort to be at home or call to change the appointment by using the FEMA tele-registration line at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or, for the hearing-and speech-impaired, TTY 800-462-7585.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center where federal and state officials are available to meet with residents of the designated counties of Allen, Christian, Fayette, Hardin, Hart, Meade, Mercer, Monroe, and Muhlenberg.
- Return all forms promptly. After registering, you may receive a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loan application package in the mail. Fill out and return these forms promptly since they are an essential part of the disaster-assistance process and may be your key to additional assistance if you do not qualify for an SBA disaster loan.
- Rebuild with disaster prevention in mind. If you receive a housing repair grant from FEMA, a follow-up letter will arrive after you receive your check. That letter will identify the purpose of the grant and will highlight the need to make repairs that will lessen the risks of future losses.
Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for all counties within the commonwealth. Individual homeowners and businesses may not apply directly to the program; however a community may apply on their behalf.
Registering Promptly Speeds the Recovery Effort
Many people who were affected by the severe weather may not be aware that federal and state assistance is now available. You can help your community recover by passing along information about the application process.
If you are deemed eligible for disaster assistance from FEMA, you will receive a letter from FEMA providing guidance on your disaster relief grant.
FEMA disaster assistance is not intended to restore you to your pre-disaster condition. It is to help you get safe and sanitary housing and meet your other critical needs so you can begin the recovery process.
It is also necessary to file your homeowner's insurance claim as soon as possible. You have up to twelve (12) months from the date you registered with FEMA to submit your insurance information for review. By law, we cannot provide money to individuals or households for losses that are covered by insurance. Failure to file with your insurer can affect your eligibility for FEMA assistance. Call FEMA if your insurance settlement is delayed or if it does not cover your loss.
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 terror.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 04-Mar-2008 13:05:36