Disaster Toll-Free Number Changes Days Of Operation
Release Date: October 16, 2003
Release Number: 1493-29
» More Information on District of Columbia Hurricane Isabel
Washington, DC - District and federal disaster assistance applications and follow-up calls by victims of Hurricane Isabel can now be made on weekdays only. Weekend service has been discontinued due to greatly diminished need over past weekends. A total of 1,392 applications have been made in D.C. to date.
The D.C. Emergency Management Agency (DCEMA) and the U.S. Office of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will change days of operation of the Toll-Free Registration and Helpline Number starting Saturday, Oct. 18. The new schedule will be available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., until further notice.
"The District/FEMA toll-free number is an important resource for those who have been affected by Hurricane Isabel, and who need information about assistance programs or the status of their applications," said DCEMA Director Peter LaPorte.
"In addition to following up on their applications, disaster victims can learn more about housing programs, grants and loans by calling this number," said Scott Wells, federal coordinating officer for the D.C. recovery effort.
District residents and business owners who need assistance or who have already registered with FEMA and have questions about assistance programs or the status of their application may call toll-free, 1-800-621-FEMA, or (TTY) 1-800-462-8575.
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: Thursday, 16-Oct-2003 11:23:59