Disaster Recovery Centers Opening In Florence, Darlington And Marlboro Counties 

Release Date: October 8, 2004
Release Number: 1566-002

» More Information on South Carolina Tropical Storm Frances

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- To assist those in South Carolina who suffered damage from the multiple storms that began with Hurricane Frances on September 6, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) are opening Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Darlington, Florence and Marlboro Counties. The centers provide a location where people are able to talk face-to-face with recovery specialists from local, state and federal agencies.

Individuals can begin the disaster application process by calling the toll-free registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week until further notice. Individuals can also find valuable recovery information on the agency’s website at http://www.fema.gov.

“As people are putting their lives back together, the most important step is to call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362),” said Michael Bolch, federal coordinating officer for the disaster. “Don’t get discouraged; continue to call until you get through. Non-peak calling times are currently between midnight to 4:30 a.m..”

The Darlington DRC will open Tuesday, October 12 and the Florence and Marlboro DRCs will open Wednesday, October 13. All centers will be staffed from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, until further notice. Their locations are:

Darlington County DRC
S C National Guard Armory
1764 Harry Byrd Highway
Darlington, SC 29532

Florence County DRC
Florence Civic Center
3300 W Radio Dr
Florence, SC 29501

Marlboro County DRC
Next to Old Clerk’s Office
105 N Main
Clio, SC 29525

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: Tuesday, 12-Oct-2004 12:21:53