Toll Free Application Number For Hurricane Ivan Disaster Survivors
Release Date: September 21, 2004
Release Number: 1558-003
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W.Va.-- A toll-free telephone registration number is now available for those who suffered property damage or personal losses in the West Virginia counties affected by Hurricane Ivan.
On September 20, 2004 in response to a request from Governor Bob Wise, President Bush signed a major disaster declaration. The declaration designated the counties of Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Ohio, Pleasants, Tyler, Wetzel and Wirt eligible for federal aid to help meet the recovery needs of stricken residents and business owners.
Lou Botta, federal coordinating officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA,) and
Stephen S. Kappa, state coordinating officer, said those with disaster related losses may apply for help immediately by calling this toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The phone lines are open 24 hours a day until further notice. Those with speech or hearing impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585.
Even if residents have already registered with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency or have reported damage to county or local officials, they can register for federal and state assistance programs only by calling FEMA’s toll-free number. A wide range of programs are available, such as funding for temporary disaster housing assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans for individuals and business owners to repair or replace damaged property, replacement grants for disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs, and disaster unemployment assistance.
“Your phone call is your application for both state and federal assistance available under the disaster declaration. The telephone application has proven to be the simplest, quickest, most efficient and confidential way to apply.” Botta said. “Don’t prejudge your eligibility. Call the application number even if you don’t have all the information necessary or it was lost in the flooding.”
When calling to register have the following information available:
- Your current phone number;
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
- Your Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses you suffered;
- If insured, the name of your company or agent and your policy number;
- General financial information; and
- Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance with direct deposit
“Some residents believe they cannot apply for assistance if they received help because of a previous disaster,” said Kappa. “This is not the case. They may be eligible again if they live in a county designated under the new declaration. Resident’s should call the toll-free number and talk to a FEMA representative.”
FEMA disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate for the entire loss. If an applicant has insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under the insurance policy. Residents should contact their insurance agent first, then if there are unmet needs they should call FEMA to apply. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans. A FEMA representative will explain the details.
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 09:12:58