Expedited Assistance for Floyd Victims Includes Lump Sum Benefits
Release Date: October 16, 1999
Release Number: 1292-64
» More Information on North Carolina Hurricane Floyd & Irene
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- To help victims of Hurricane Floyd recover more quickly, FEMA will provide lump sum benefits - about $10,000 per individual - for those eligible for 18 months of rental assistance. This lump sum will benefit those disaster aid applicants whose homes have incurred major damage or been destroyed, FEMA announced today.
"As a result of, among other things, the widespread damage caused by the hurricane, the number of people whose houses suffered major damage and the lack of alternative housing in certain states, it is vital that swift action be taken to assist these storm victims before the onset of cold weather," said FEMA Director James Lee Witt.
Disaster aid experts say the lump sum payment is necessary to provide greater flexibility for those seeking housing in the aftermath of the storm. This lump sum would be part of a package of assistance, including the Individual and Family Grant program and Small Business Administration program to allow victims to rebuild their lives.
Aid applicants need not call FEMA, their cases will be automatically adjusted to provide the additional assistance.
Those who have yet to apply for disaster assistance in the states declared federal disasters following Hurricane Floyd should call 1-800-462-9029. The number for speech and hearing impaired individuals is: 1-800-462-7585.
Last Modified: Thursday, 11-Dec-2003 14:12:48