Disaster Center To Open In Salem 

Release Date: April 4, 2003
Release Number: 1458-03

» More Information on Virginia Severe Winter Storm, Snowfall, Heavy Rain, Flooding, and Mudslides

Lynchburg, VA -- People in Virginia who suffered damages from February's winter storms and flooding will be able to get information at a Disaster Recovery Center beginning Saturday, April 5, according to state and federal disaster recovery officials.

"The first step in the recovery process is to make a toll-free call to 1-800-621 FEMA," said Justo Hernandez, who heads up the federal disaster response effort for FEMA. "Anyone who received damage from the winter storm and flooding also can visit a Disaster Recovery Center for additional information or to meet face-to-face with representatives of federal, state and voluntary agencies."

The Disaster Recovery Center location is:

Virginia Department of Forestry
(behind the Shanghai Restaurant)
210 Riverland Drive
Salem, Virginia

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.

Visitors to the center can learn about a variety of disaster-assistance programs, including temporary housing, funds for home repairs and other major disaster-related expenses, as well as low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. They also can get answers to questions about tax-related issues and crisis counseling.

President Bush declared a disaster for 22 Virginia localities on March 27. Federal, state and local teams are continuing to visit areas of Virginia to determine what help is needed by those struck by the winter storms and flooding.

"We want to make sure everyone who needs help to recover gets all applicable assistance," said State Coordinating Officer Michael Cline. "The Disaster Recovery Center will remain open as long as needed, and additional centers will be opened if necessary."

Last Modified: Friday, 11-Apr-2003 10:17:50