Mingo, Wayne Counties Added For Disaster Aid; Eligibility For Governmental Aid Expanded In 10 Other Counties 

Release Date: September 29, 2004
Release Number: 1558-023

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

CHARLESTON, W.V. -- Two more counties – Mingo and Wayne – have been added for disaster assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan, officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the West Virginia Office of Emergency Services announced today. This brings to 18 the number of West Virginia counties eligible for assistance under the disaster declaration issued by President Bush on September 20, 2004.

The federal and state officials added that 10 of the previously declared counties are now eligible for repairs and restoration of public works ranging from roads and bridges to water control facilities, utilities, parks and recreational facilities (Public Assistance Categories C-G). They had previously been eligible for debris removal and emergency protective measures. (Categories A-B). Federal funds will finance 75 percent of governmental projects approved for assistance as well as the same percentage of expenses for debris removal and other emergency measures. The state provides the remaining 25 percent.

“Ensuring that vital community services are restored as quickly as possible is part of our continuing commitment to recovery,” said Lou Botta, federal coordinating officer for the Hurricane Ivan disaster.

Aid to individuals and households provides grants for emergency, necessary home repairs and rental assistance for renters and homeowners who cannot or should not live in disaster-damaged homes. Individuals may also be eligible for other assistance, including lost personal property, funeral expenses, transportation and dental and medical costs and low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“These additional declarations will help affected West Virginia municipalities restore damaged, needed facilities and individuals begin their own personal recoveries,” said Stephen S. Kappa, state coordinating officer.

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, 29-Sep-2004 18:20:01