Damage From The Storm? - Apply For Assistance Today 

Missourians, don't disqualify yourself for getting assistance

Release Date: June 25, 2007
Release Number: 1708-007

» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Flooding

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Individuals who suffered damages from the severe storms and flooding May 5 - 18 may be eligible for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA), even if they are insured.

“If you are under-insured or uninsured for expenses, damages or losses, we may be able to help,” said Lee Rosenberg, the federal official in charge of disaster recovery. “If your losses are not fully covered, take the first step and call FEMA’s toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply for assistance or apply online at www.fema.gov.”

TTY service is available at 1-800-462-7585 for individuals who are speech or hearing impaired. Phone lines are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. everyday until further notice.

“Don’t disqualify yourself by not registering for assistance. Often people learn later that they were eligible for benefits but incorrectly assumed otherwise because they had insurance,” said Ronald M. Reynolds, the state coordinating officer for disaster recovery.

Residents who had damage should register. If applicants have questions about their eligibility, the FEMA helpline can provide answers. The phone number is the same for registering or for the helpline. The helpline can explain the disaster assistance process and provide valuable information on the types of assistance available to each individual.

The federal and state programs available include temporary housing and rental assistance, home repair and other disaster-related needs; disaster unemployment assistance and can include low interest disaster loans from the SBA. Disaster loans from SBA help homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations fund rebuilding. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

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, 26-Jun-2007 11:45:11