Columbiana County Recovery Center To Close Wednesday, But Help Still Available
SBA Loan Assistance Center to remain open in same location
Release Date: October 4, 2004
Release Number: 1556-018
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COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The joint FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center operating in Lisbon will permanently close at 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 6, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will remain at the location as a Loan Assistance Center beginning Thursday to replace the Disaster Recovery Center. The center will continue to operate Monday through Fridays, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., until further notice.
Those affected by the disaster who still have questions about assistance or low-interest disaster loans can call the toll-free application line – 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) – or visit the SBA Loan Assistance Center. The number for those with hearing or speech impairment is 1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Officials report that the volume of calls usually drops significantly after 6 p.m.
At this stage of the recovery process, the emphasis for assistance has shifted to low-interest disaster loans to meet the long-term needs of victims. To assist victims with the application process, the SBA will continue to have loan officers available at the Columbiana County Career Center, 9364 State Route 45, Lisbon. The Loan Assistance Center will be open Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., until further notice, starting Thursday, October 7.
More than 1,100 homeowners, renters, and business owners have visited one of the several Disaster Recovery Centers operating in the affected areas. The temporary centers were established to provide detailed program information to those who have already applied for assistance. Disaster recovery specialists staff the centers to answer questions and provide information on recovery, restoration and rebuilding. Even those who have not suffered damages from this disaster may visit a center to receive information on ways to reduce potential future disaster damages.
The Ohio EMA coordinates State assistance and resources during an emergency and prepares the state for all hazards through planning, training, exercises and funding activities at the state and local level. This includes providing assistance to individuals and administering state and federal assistance to individuals and governmental entities recovering from disaster-related damage and costs. Ohio EMA coordinates homeland security funding, weapons of mass destruction training, anti-terrorism planning and training, and assists local and state agencies determine homeland strategies and priorities.
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, 05-Oct-2004 09:39:56