New Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Birmingham 

Release Date: October 18, 2004
Release Number: 1549-057

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MOBILE, Ala. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) announced today the opening of the Birmingham Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Jefferson County on Monday, October 18.

Jefferson County DRC

Five Points West Library
4620 Avenue V
Birmingham

Opens: Monday, October 18 at 1:00 p.m.

A visit to a Disaster Recovery Center, while not mandatory, may provide an opportunity for individuals to acquire additional information on disaster assistance programs, or simply meet face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists. Personnel at the center will be able to provide disaster housing information, technical assistance on how to reduce future disaster damages, and referrals to other federal and state assistance programs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will have application packets and loan officers available to assist individuals who had damage to their home, personal property or business.

The first step on the road to recovery after a disaster is to register with FEMA by calling toll-free 800-621-FEMA (3362) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing- or speech-impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week until further notice. If possible, try calling in the evening after 6:00 p.m. or on weekends when call volume often is lighter. You can also register online using FEMA's Internet registration at www.fema.gov.

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: Tuesday, 19-Oct-2004 10:17:53