Flood Victims Urged To Apply For Federal/State Disaster Aid 

Release Date: April 27, 2004
Release Number: 1512-002

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BEVERLY, MA – A toll-free telephone registration line has been opened as a result of President Bush’s April 22 disaster declaration for residents and business owners in five Massachusetts counties who suffered damage or losses from the floods that began April 1 to apply for state and federal disaster assistance.

The counties are Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Worcester.

Affected residents and businesses are encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY), for the hearing and speech impaired. Staffed by employees from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.

Assistance can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also will be available to cover residential and business losses not compensated by insurance.

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 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: Wednesday, 28-Apr-2004 08:51:50