Disaster Recovery Centers Open in George, Jackson and Wayne Counties
Release Date: September 20, 2004
Release Number: 1550-004
» More Information on Mississippi Hurricane Ivan
GAUTIER, Miss. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) announce the opening of three Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) to assist those who suffered losses and damages as a direct result of Hurricane Ivan. Starting Tuesday, September 21, 2004, DRCs will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week at the following locations:
| George County Senior Citizen Building 7109 Hwy. 198 East Lucedale, MS |
Jackson County Jackson County Sheriff’s Reserve Bldg. Fairgrounds off Vega St. Pascagoula, MS |
Wayne County Wayne County Courthouse Waynesboro, MS |
Representatives from FEMA, the State of Mississippi, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the DRCs to provide information on disaster recovery programs. Additionally, SBA will be available to help fill out applications for low-interest loans for homeowners, renters and businesses.
Before going to a DRC, individuals should call FEMA’s toll-free registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply for assistance. People with hearing or speech impairments may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.
“Calling FEMA’s toll-free registration number is the first step to receiving help from federal and state programs,” Mike Womack, MEMA deputy director appointed by Governor Barbour as the State Coordinating Officer said. “It isn’t necessary to visit a DRC unless someone wants additional disaster assistance information.”
Federal Coordinating Officer Scott Wells suggests those who have registered and still have questions should visit the center. “The recovery center is a great resource for people who would like to ask questions about their applications, update their information, or get face-to-face help.”
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: Monday, 20-Sep-2004 15:17:07