More Than 1.3 Million Dollars Approved For Virginia Disaster Victims
Release Date: September 10, 2004
Release Number: 1544-007
RICHMOND, Va. -- More than $1.3 million in disaster assistance has been approved for Virginia victims of
Tropical Depression Gaston. One week after a presidential disaster declaration, federal and state officials have approved $1,389,982 in assistance grants to those who suffered damage or loss resulting from the Aug. 30 storm.On Sept. 3, President Bush signed a disaster declaration for Virginia triggering assistance to renters, homeowners and businesses in the cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg and Richmond and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Hanover, Henrico and Prince George. The declaration made federal and state disaster funds available to individuals to cover housing and other serious disaster-related needs. The declaration also authorized the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide low-interest loans to eligible individuals and business owners.
To date, 2,058 individuals have called the toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), to apply for disaster assistance. The number for those with speech or hearing impairment is TTY 1-800-462-7585. Application telephone lines are open 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., seven days a week, until further notice.
"We're committed to providing disaster assistance as quickly as possible, and this assistance is an important first step in the recovery process," Marianne C. Jackson, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) federal coordinating officer, said. "We will continue to work with our state, local and volunteer partners to help meet the needs of those who were affected by the recent flooding."
"Our top priority is getting people into safe and sanitary living quarters so they can continue on with their lives," said Michael M. Cline, Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) coordinator. Disaster assistance comes in the form of grants for temporary housing for homeowners and renters, essential repairs for homeowners and grants for essential disaster-related needs.
To date, SBA has issued 1,571 applications for low-interest disaster loans, 228 to businesses and 1,243 to homeowners or renters. As soon as the applications are returned, inspections will be scheduled and then loan eligibility determined.
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: Friday, 10-Sep-2004 17:23:44