Disaster Declaration Approved For Seven Arkansas Counties
Release Date: April 13, 2006
Release Number: 1636-001
» More Information on Arkansas Severe Storms and Tornadoes
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Conway, Cross, Fulton, Greene, Lawrence, Randolph and White counties who sustained losses as a result of the recent storms and tornadoes may be eligible for federal and state disaster assistance programs from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM). President George W. Bush issued a federal disaster declaration for these seven counties yesterday.
Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate individuals for their entire loss. If an individual has insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under their insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other help may come in the form of loans.
The primary aid programs include temporary disaster housing assistance; low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for repair and replacement of real or personal property; and Other Needs Assistance grants to help meet serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs.
"We want to assure people that we are working to make sure services are provided to those who need them," said Carlos Mitchell, federal coordinating officer for the recovery effort. "A number of disaster assistance programs are in place to help the people affected by the storms and tornadoes."
Residents may apply for assistance by calling the FEMA, toll-free, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hearing and speech impaired individuals may call TTY at 1-800-462-7585. Individuals and business owners may register from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until further notice. Application may also be made on the internet using the Online Individual Assistance Center, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Applicants for assistance should have the following information readily available:
- Current and pre-disaster address
- Social Security number
- Current telephone numbers
- Insurance policy number(s) and agent's name
- A brief description of damages and losses
"We are making every effort to get people the help they need. Please call the 1-800 number or register online," Richard Griffin, state coordinating officer, said. "This is the first step to getting help."
Last Modified: Thursday, 20-Apr-2006 08:41:16