Insured Should Apply For Disaster Assistance
Disaster Assistance Available For Uninsured And Under-Insured
Release Date: July 26, 2003
Release Number: 1479-09
» More Information on Texas Hurricane Claudette
Corpus Christi, TX - Individuals who suffered damage from Hurricane Claudette and were insured may still be eligible for federal and state disaster assistance.
"If you were uninsured or your insurance policy did not cover some of your disaster related damages or losses, FEMA may be able to help," said Federal Coordinating Officer Carlos Mitchell. "If your losses weren't fully covered by your insurance, take the first step and register with FEMA."
The law does not allow the government to provide disaster aid if losses have been fully compensated by an insurance claim.
Currently nine Texas counties, Bee, Brazoria, Calhoun, Galveston, Goliad, Jackson, Matagorda, Refugio and Victoria are included in the July 17 disaster declaration.
"Don't disqualify yourself because you have insurance," said State Coordinating Officer Dell Greer. "Go ahead and make the call."
The disaster programs available include temporary housing assistance, grants for repairs or other serious disaster-related needs, low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for homeowners, renters or business owners and other aid programs, including disaster unemployment assistance.
Anyone who sustained damaged from the Hurricane Claudette should register with FEMA by calling the toll-free teleregistration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The number for speech and hearing-impaired individuals is (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Both numbers are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.
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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 28-Jul-2003 09:26:33