Jackson And Meridian Disaster Recovery Centers To Close Friday 

Release Date: May 20, 2003
Release Number: 1459-28

» More Information on Mississippi Severe Storms, Tornadoes and Flooding

Jackson, MS -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)/State Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) located in Jackson and Meridian are scheduled to close Friday, May 23, at 6:00 p.m. Until then the center will remain open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, May 21, 22 and 23, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Jackson DRC is located at the Jackson Police Department Training Academy, 3000 Saint Charles Street. The Meridian DRC is located at the Central Fire Station, 2500 14th Street.

The DRC's are open to offer help to Mississippi homeowners, renters and businesses owners who may be eligible for state and federal assistance under the April 24th presidential declaration. President Bush declared 30 Mississippi counties as disaster areas as a result of the April 6th through 25th severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

"The Disaster Recovery Centers provide an opportunity to learn more about federal and state assistance programs and to check on the status of an application," said State Coordinating Officer Leon Shaifer. "Those who have not applied yet for disaster assistance may still apply by calling toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing-or-speech impaired before June 23rd," he said.

Disaster assistance programs include temporary housing assistance, grants for serious other needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance or other programs, and low interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for disaster-damaged residential and business property. Disaster unemployment assistance, tax assistance and other special services are also available to eligible persons affected by the disaster.

"More than 500 people have visited the DRC's since they opened. There are only three days left to visit a DRC and meet face-to-face with disaster officials to have your questions answered or to learn more about what assistance programs are available to you. Don't be left out, visit either DRC today," Federal Coordinating Officer Carlos Mitchell said.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 20-May-2003 15:07:44