Use Housing Funds Wisely
Release Date: April 23, 2003
Release Number: 1455-45
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Winter Storms
Charleston, WV - With more than $2.3 million in disaster housing funds issued to more than 1,000 West Virginians in the wake of the Feb. 16 winter storm, state and federal officials advise recipients that it is important for these checks to be used only for disaster-related damages or losses.
A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) housing assistance check is intended for one of four uses only: for basic housing repairs, short-term rental assistance, reimbursement of hotel/motel expenses or replacement:
- Repairs are intended to return the home to a safe, sanitary and functional condition;
- Short-term rental assistance is based on the fair market rental rates in the affected area. Applicants who must remain in temporary housing for a longer period than the check covers may request more assistance until their home can be re-occupied or other permanent housing arrangements can be made. Receipts for additional rental assistance will be requested;
- Reimbursement for hotel or motel expenses are for out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the disaster. Receipts for these expenses will be requested; and
- Replacement: This type of assistance offers a limited amount of money to replace a disaster-destroyed home.
Every housing assistance request is treated individually, and each situation is different. After the applicant's information is reviewed by FEMA Human Services, a determination is made according to the applicant's need and the disaster assistance allowed by law.
In order to speed funds to eligible applicants, the U.S. Treasury Department issues the assistance electronically or by check. A separate letter is mailed from FEMA specifying the use of the disaster aid.
The notice of delivery of funds or check and letter of explanation may not necessarily arrive on the same day. All assistance provided by FEMA should be used for its intended purpose. Failure to use the tax-free money as specified may cause FEMA to recoup the money.
The letter also urges recipients to rebuild with disaster prevention in mind. Examples include raising electrical junction boxes and elevating major appliances to minimize floodwater damage.
FEMA provides disaster resistance information on the following website: http://www.fema.gov/library/prepandprev.shtm
The notice provides a FEMA Helpline for applicants with questions or the need for more information, 800-621-FEMA (3362) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) for the speech or hearing impaired.
To report fraud, waste or abuse in FEMA programs call 800-323-8603.
Last Modified: Thursday, 24-Apr-2003 13:09:35