More Than $25 Million Disbursed on Disaster Recovery Aid for Puerto Rico
Release Date: January 2, 2009
Release Number: 1798-070
» More Information on Puerto Rico Severe Storms and Flooding
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- Commonwealth and Federal disaster recovery aid has reached $25,021,806 in approved funds benefiting 38,171 applicants that registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as a result of the flooding which affected Puerto Rico during September 21 through October 3, 2008.
"FEMA and the Commonwealth have been actively delivering support to affected individuals and businesses in their disaster recovery process," said Justo Hernández, federal coordinating officer. "We have helped thousands on their recovery process, and will continue serving those eligible for disaster aid."
As part of the application process, 36,159 homes have been inspected to verify disaster-related damages, resulting in the approval of disaster relief funds under FEMAs Individual and Households Program (IHP). The IHP provides funds help to perform minimal repairs, provide assistance for renters, and homeowners whose homes are uninhabitable, and covers medical, dental, transportation expenses and other disaster-related essential needs.
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) continue operations throughout the affected areas, and have serviced 35,511 residents from the 21 disaster-declared municipalities supporting them in the application process and providing information about the available disaster assistance programs.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued 7,453 low-interest, long-term loan applications to homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes, to help repair or replace damaged personal property. SBA has approved $6,096,900 in disaster assistance loans.
As of today, FEMA has established Long Term Recovery Committees (LRTC), in the 21 declared municipalities, which will continue, even after FEMA completes its recovery operation.
Disaster recovery officials remind affected residents that January 15, 2009, is the deadline to register for federal disaster assistance. Those who have not registered for assistance are encouraged to apply by calling 1-800-621-3362 - use option 2 for Spanish (TTY 800-462-7585) - or by going online at www.disasterassistance.gov.
The municipalities included in the presidential disaster declaration are Adjuntas, Arroyo, Cabo Rojo, Guánica, Guayama, Guayanilla, Gurabo, Humacao, Juncos, Lajas, Las Piedras,
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: Friday, 02-Jan-2009 10:51:30