Partnership Is The Key To Meeting Emergency Needs
Release Date: December 4, 2003
Release Number: 1500-26
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A strong partnership between the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the West Virginia Office of Emergency Services (WVOES) and voluntary agencies is the key to meeting the emergency needs of disaster victims, according to state and federal recovery officials. "No one agency can do it all," said Federal Coordinating Officer Michael Bolch. "But, together we can make a difference for people hurt by a disaster."
Bolch urged West Virginia residents recovering from the severe storms, flooding and landslides that began on November 11 to take maximum advantage of the many resources available from state, federal and other sources. "The all-important first step for anyone affected by the storms is to call the FEMA toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-3362 to apply for assistance," said Bolch. Those with speech or hearing impairments can call TTY 1-800-462-7585 . Both lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. By making this phone call, individuals and businesses may take advantage of a variety of programs, including grants for temporary housing, emergency repairs and other serious, disaster-related needs. Low-interest loans also may be available to help cover uninsured or underinsured losses to private or business property.
Voluntary agencies, always among the first to provide disaster assistance, are active partners throughout the recovery period. During the height of the disaster, volunteers worked hand-in-hand with local emergency response teams to meet the immediate needs of hundreds of West Virginia residents who required emergency food, clothing, shelter and other services, said State Coordinating Officer Stephen S. Kappa of WVOES. "And, the involvement of these voluntary agencies does not end there." Kappa was referring to Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD), which plays an important role in sharing information among and coordinating the assistance of many volunteer agencies.
To date, more than 4,472 West Virginians have registered for assistance by calling the toll-free registration number. For more information or assistance, disaster victims can call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY 1-800-462-7585).
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: Thursday, 04-Dec-2003 15:14:42