Fayette, Lincoln, Logan County Storm Victims Should Register
Release Date: August 16, 2004
Release Number: 1536-006
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Residents in Fayette, Lincoln and Logan counties may register for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for property damage or losses from the late July storms even if they received federal or state funds after the earlier Memorial Day flooding.
Lou Botta, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer, and Stephen Kappa, state coordinating officer, West Virginia Office of Emergency Services, said those affected by the disaster may apply for assistance immediately by calling this toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Those with speech- or hearing-impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585.
“These counties were declared in the last disaster declaration as a result of severe storms on Memorial Day weekend,” Botta said. “We want to make it clear that this is a separate disaster, and anyone who experienced damages as a result of the July 22 storms should apply for FEMA assistance – even if they received help after the Memorial Day storms.”
In response to a request from Governor Bob Wise, President Bush signed a major disaster declaration Aug. 6, 2004. The declaration designated the counties of Fayette, Lincoln and Logan for federal aid to help meet the recovery needs of stricken residents and business owners.
“Don’t prejudge your eligibility, even if you don’t have all the information necessary, or it was lost in the floods,” Kappa said. “It’s important that all residents get the assistance available to them. Even if you have already registered with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency or have reported damage to county or local officials, you can apply for the federal and state assistance programs only by calling FEMA’s toll-free number.”
The declaration makes residents of these counties eligible for a wide range of programs 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 serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs, and disaster unemployment assistance.
When calling to apply 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
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: Monday, 16-Aug-2004 11:18:06