First Assistance Checks on the way to McKean County Disaster Victims
Release Date: September 9, 1999
Release Number: 1289-04
» More Information on Pennsylvania Severe Storms and Flooding
HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Checks totaling more than $340,746 in disaster housing grants are being distributed to victims of the recent heavy rains and flooding in McKean County, federal and state officials announced today.
"Within the first week of the disaster declaration 197 checks totaling $340,746 were issued. I'm pleased to see disaster assistance funds are moving quickly to the people who need them most," said Jack Schuback, Federal Coordinating Officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "The housing needs of persons affected by flooding are top priority," he added.
"But this is only the beginning of the recovery process," added Bob Churchman, State Coordinating Officer for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. "Additional funds for other applicants will follow in the days ahead as more registrations are received and more inspections are completed."
FEMA began to register applicants for disaster assistance on Sept. 2. Officials continue to urge residents who have suffered losses to homes or businesses in the rain and flooding to call the toll-free application number, 1-800-462-9029 (TTY 1-800-462-7585). Both phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
More than 400 McKean County residents have applied for assistance since President Clinton's disaster declaration on Sept. 1.
Disaster housing assistance comes in the form of grants for alternate rental housing and emergency repairs needed to make a residence habitable. "This assistance is generally intended as an interim solution to housing needs until long-term solutions are found, typically through insurance or loans," Schuback said.
Last Modified: Friday, 12-Dec-2003 10:03:02