One Week Remains To Apply For Disaster Assistance 

Release Date: November 10, 2003
Release Number: 1492-067

» More Information on Maryland Hurricane Isabel

Baltimore, MD - Maryland disaster victims who have not yet applied for federal disaster assistance have only one more week to apply. November 18, 2003, is the last day to file applications for disaster assistance programs, according to federal and state disaster recovery officials.

Homeowners, renters, farmers, and businesses owners who sustained damage from Hurricane Isabel are encouraged to apply by calling the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) toll-free registration number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with hearing or speech impairments can register by calling 1-800-462-7585. The telephone numbers are operational from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

Applicants may qualify for assistance under several federal and state programs such as disaster housing assistance, grants to meet disaster-related needs and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans. For those who have already registered for disaster assistance, November 18 is also the last day to mail in the completed U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application packet that more than 12,900 disaster applicants have received. The loan application packet must be postmarked by November 18 to be considered for SBA loans or additional disaster related grants.

After the deadline, if you have questions about your application, you may reach the FEMA Helpline by calling the toll-free number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Representatives are available from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, to answer questions about the assistance process or the status of applications. TTY service is available at 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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Monday, 10-Nov-2003 09:38:09