Deadline Approaches For Disaster Victims Of Tropical Storm Frances To Apply For Assistance
Release Date: October 26, 2004
Release Number: 1546-022a
» More Information on North Carolina Tropical Storm Frances
ASHEVILLE, N.C. -- North Carolinians affected by Tropical Storm Frances, who have not yet registered for federal disaster assistance, have only two more weeks to apply. Tuesday, November 9, 2004, is the last day to file applications for most disaster assistance programs, according to federal and state disaster recovery officials.
Residents who suffered damage in the following counties are eligible for assistance: Alleghany, Alexander, Ashe, Avery, Bladen, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Columbus, Cumberland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Hoke, Iredell, Lincoln, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Robeson, Rutherford, Scotland, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey.
Homeowners, renters, and business owners who sustained damage from Tropical Storm Frances are encouraged to apply. Call the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), to register. Those with hearing- or speech-impairments can register by calling 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). Representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.
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. SBA loan applications must be completed and returned to the SBA by November 9, 2004 as well. Individuals who have insurance, may still be eligible for disaster assistance for under-insured losses.
Applications may be updated and will continue to be processed after the November 9 deadline, but no additional applications for assistance will be accepted. Helpline representatives (at the numbers listed above) are available to answer questions about assistance or check the status of a caller’s application. Multilingual representatives are available when needed.
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: Wednesday, 27-Oct-2004 11:41:18