Easier Disaster Information Helpline Now Available To West Virginia Flood Victims
Release Date: May 22, 2002
Release Number: 1410-36
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
Beckley, WV -- A Disaster Information Helpline that is easier to use has been established for victims of the early May severe storms, flooding and landslides in West Virginia. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently set up the new system to make it easier for people to initiate and maintain contact with disaster recovery offices.
Now there is no need for disaster victims to learn a second number; the Helpline number is the same as FEMA's Toll-Free Application number.
The only number people need to call is 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). (Persons with hearing or speech impairment may call the TTY number: 1-800-462-7585.) Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until further notice.
"Disaster victims can register for assistance or ask questions about our disaster assistance programs by calling the same number," Justo Hernandez, lead federal officer on the recovery effort, said. Steve Kappa, director of West Virginia Office of Emergency Services, added: "The Helpline can answer many of your questions. It often will be able to refer you to other federal, state or local organizations when needed."
In past disaster recovery activities FEMA had to set up two distinct telephone operations. One was for registering for assistance; a second for asking questions, for those who needed information about assistance programs or on the status of their applications for aid. For the greater convenience of most disaster victims, officials have combined these numbers.
President Bush signed the major disaster declaration on May 5 for four West Virginia counties, making them eligible for federal disaster assistance. The declared counties are: McDowell, Mercer, Mingo and Wyoming. Renters, homeowners and business owners in the designated counties may apply for assistance.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 17:09:02