Mississippi Tornado Victims Can Apply For Assistance By Calling Fema's Toll-Free Registration Number
Release Date: December 9, 2001
Release Number: 1398-07
» More Information on Mississippi Severe Storms and Tornadoes
Atlanta, GA -- A special toll-free telephone number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), is in operation for residents of 10 Mississippi counties who were affected by the tornadoes and other extreme weather that hit the state Nov. 24.
At the request of Mississippi Gov. Ronnie Musgrove, President George W. Bush designated the 10 counties a major disaster area on Dec. 7. The counties are Bolivar, DeSoto, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tate and Washington. The declaration opens the way for a wide range of state, federal and voluntary disaster assistance for the victims of the storm who reside in any of those counties.
Federal Coordinating Officer Gracia Szczech, an official of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and State Coordinating Officer Leon Shaifer of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) said those affected by the storm may apply for assistance immediately by calling the toll-free number between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. Hearing or speech-impaired persons using electronic typing equipment (TTY) may call 1-800-462-7585.
The telephone call for assistance will require about 15 minutes. Callers should be prepared to provide:
- Their social security number.
- The address of the damaged property.
- A telephone number where the applicant may be reached.
- An address where mail may be received.
- A rough estimate of income.
- Identity of company insuring the property.
Victims will receive a special number identifying their application. It should be retained for use in future actions or inquiries that may be required. FEMA inspectors will schedule appointments with applicants in order to view the damage site and verify the loss. For best results, and to prevent unnecessary delays, it is important for applicants to keep those appointments.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 23-Sep-2003 14:47:45