FEMA And State Disaster Assistance Programs Serve Those In Need
Release Date: November 12, 2007
Release Number: 1731-032
» More Information on California Wildfires
PASADENA, Calif. -- Federal and state assistance programs can help Californians as they start to rebuild their lives-changed drastically by the recent wildfires.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA's) Individuals and Households Program includes:
Housing Assistance (FEMA funded) for:
- Temporary residence (rental assistance or lodging expenses), or;
- Repairs for homeowners to make their homes safe, sanitary and habitable.
Other disaster-related assistance (state and FEMA funded) for:
- Personal property - clothing, furnishings, appliances and certain clean-up items;
- Transportation - vehicle repair or replacement or additional costs for public transportation;
- Medical, dental and funeral expenses; and
- Other disaster-related expenses - moving and storage, etc.
California's State Supplemental Grant Program (SSGP), administered by the California Department of Social Services, assists those who suffered damages and losses as a result of the wildfires. Individuals who have received the maximum grant assistance from FEMA and still have eligible losses may be eligible for SSGP.
"Ensuring that everyone eligible for fire assistance has the opportunity to access all the federal and state assistance they are eligible for under the law, including safe housing, is one of our top priorities," said Henry Renteria director of the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES) and state coordinating officer for the fire recovery effort.
"We realize the anguish of those who have been displaced from their homes or lost personal property because of these devastating fires," said Federal Coordinating Officer Mike Hall of FEMA. "Registering for disaster assistance is one of the first steps to recovery."
Those affected by the wildfires may register for federal and state assistance by calling
1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1- 800-462-7585. Lines are open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily. Each situation is unique, and every application is handled on a case-by-case basis.
When calling to register for housing assistance, wildfire victims with disabilities should communicate their special needs, so FEMA can ensure their housing is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
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, 13-Nov-2007 09:24:25