Disaster Assistance Expands to Individuals in Nine Counties
Release Date: May 29, 2007
Release Number: 1699-012
» More Information on Kansas Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
WICHITA, Kan. -- Homeowners, renters and business owners in Clay, Cloud, Comanche, Leavenworth, Lyon, Reno, Rice, Saline and Shawnee counties who suffered damage as a result of the early May severe storms, tornadoes and flooding are now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance.
“Adding these counties means residents in 17 Kansas counties may now qualify for grants and loans to help with their disaster recovery,” said Michael L. Karl, federal coordinating officer. Barton, Edwards, Kiowa, Osborne, Ottawa and Phillips, Pratt and Stafford counties were previously designated.
In addition, local governments and certain eligible private nonprofit organizations in Barton, Comanche, Dickinson, Edwards, Ellsworth, Jackson, Kiowa, Lincoln, Osage, Ottawa, Pottawatomie, Pratt, Stafford and Wabaunsee counties may apply for Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency services related to the disaster, and the restoration of damaged public facilities.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM) have been working together to help Kansans recover since May 6 when President Bush issued the major disaster declaration.
“We want to make sure everyone who is eligible gets the assistance they need,” Angee Morgan, state coordinator for the disaster recovery, said.
The disaster programs for individuals include temporary housing and grants for disaster-related expenses not met by insurance or other programs. Kansans can register for assistance by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center, or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. seven days a week. Applicants with special speech or hearing needs can call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Registration can also be done on line at www.fema.gov.
The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and to private non-profit organizations in the designated counties to cover uninsured costs to repair or replace homes, businesses and personal property damaged by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding that occurred May 4 through 18.
FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 29-May-2007 18:21:35