Seven Pennsylvania Counties Added For Tropical Depression Ivan Aid  

Release Date: September 21, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-198

» More Information on Pennsylvania Tropical Depression Ivan

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today designated seven additional Pennsylvania counties eligible for federal disaster aid to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from the effects of Tropical Depression Ivan.

Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, made the designations under President Bush’s major disaster declaration issued for the state on September 19. The seven added counties include Blair, Bucks, Cameron, Carbon, Greene, Huntingdon and Lehigh.

The assistance can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not met by insurance or other aid programs. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also will be available to cover residential and businesses losses not fully compensated by insurance.

In addition, Brown said affected local governments in the seven designated counties also are eligible to apply for federal funds to pay 75 percent of the approved costs for debris removal and emergency services related to the storm.

Brown said that stricken residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process by calling the toll-free registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.

Brown added that those in Blair County who sustained losses from Tropical Depression Frances are eligible to apply for assistance for damage caused by both storms.

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, 22-Sep-2004 17:11:31