Flood Recovery Update 

Release Date: August 6, 2004
Release Number: 1530-016

» More Information on New Jersey Severe Storms and Flooding

Recovery Facts as of 8-6-2004

1924 – registrations for assistance from the two counties declared for federal assistance (Burlington and Camden).

943 – visitors to Disaster Recovery Centers in Camden, Medford and Lumberton.

$3,517,271 -- approved for disaster housing program needs (home repairs and temporary rental assistance).

$554,122 – approved for Other Needs Assistance grants that may include grants for serious unmet needs for personal property, transportation and other eligible expenses.

$793,900 – low-interest disaster loan funds approved from U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

(Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency)

Mount Laurel, NJ -- Nearly $4.9 million in federal assistance has been approved for disaster assistance in New Jersey since the Presidential declaration of July 16, according to figures released today by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management.

“There are still some people who suffered damages during the storms and flooding that occurred between July 17 and July 23 who may not realize that they should call and register for assistance. Even people who have insurance should register because some needs may not be covered by insurance” said Peter Martinasco, federal coordinating officer. Capt. Karl Kleeberg, state coordinating officer with New Jersey Office of Emergency Management added, “We want to be sure that every individual who sustained damages from this event registers at the national disaster assistance registration number”.

FEMA’S toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The special number for those with hearing or speech impairment is TTY 1 800 462-7585. These numbers are available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. everyday, until further notice.

People who have already registered should use the same numbers to check on the status of their application, update their current information, or request general assistance information.

U.S. Small Business Administration

SBA disaster specialists have issued 1,748 loan applications to homeowners, renters and/or business owners. Officials urge applicants to complete their loan paperwork as soon as possible, even if they have not received a final settlement from their insurance company. The loan application must be returned so that reviewers can determine if people are eligible for other potential forms of disaster assistance – such as grants for serious unmet needs. SBA representatives are available at all Disaster Recovery Centers for applicants who need assistance completing their loan paperwork.

Disaster Recovery Centers are Still Open in Camden and Burlington counties

The centers are located at:

The Disaster Recovery Centers are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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: Friday, 06-Aug-2004 17:29:50