Holiday Closing Reminder: Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Thanksgiving Holiday: Reopening on Friday 

Release Date: November 21, 2005
Release Number: 1605-112

» More Information on Alabama Hurricane Katrina

MONTGOMERY, AL -- Alabama Emergency Management Agency and U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials remind residents and evacuees that Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Bayou La Batre, Birmingham, and Tillman’s Corner will be closed Thursday, November 24 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

The centers will reopen Friday, November 25 and resume normal hours, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and continue to be closed on Sundays. All three centers will close permanently on December 2.

“As Americans, we enjoy many blessings, and we want to take an opportunity to express our gratitude to all those who registered for assistance and who have persevered through this difficult time,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Michael Bolch. “Alabamians affected by Katrina can be sure that FEMA will continue to work for their recovery.”

People affected by Hurricane Katrina are urged to register before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by going online at www.fema.gov. The TTY number is 800-462-7585 for those who are speech- or hearing-impaired. The last day to register is January 11, 2006.

Representatives of state, federal and voluntary agencies will be at the DRCs to answer questions and provide recovery information. Officials from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to discuss disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes. Written materials about disaster assistance programs and mitigation techniques for home and business owners are also available.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 22-Nov-2005 11:55:45