FEMA/State Move Quickly To Open Disaster Recovery Center In Wheeling 

Release Date: September 21, 2004
Release Number: 1558-002

» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides

CHARLESTON, W.Va.-- State and federal disaster recovery officials announced that a Disaster Recovery Center will open on Wednesday, September 22 in Wheeling to serve victims of Hurricane Ivan. The center location is:

WesBanco Arena
16 Street and Main
Wheeling, WV

After calling the toll-free application number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585, disaster victims may visit the center to meet face-to-face with recovery specialists. Representatives of local, state and federal agencies, as well as voluntary agencies, will be on hand to provide program and service information.

The Wheeling center will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until further notice. Personnel at the centers can also provide disaster housing information, technical assistance on how to reduce future disaster damages, and referrals to other federal and state assistance programs.

People who have suffered damage to their home, apartment or business property in the disaster designated counties of Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Ohio, Pleasants, Tyler, Wetzel and Wirt are urged to call and register for assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The special number for those with hearing or speech impairment is TTY 1-800-462-7585.

After individuals have applied by phone, they may visit the center with any questions or to receive more specific information on federal and state recovery programs.

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 09:10:44