President Orders Disaster Aid For Virginia Storm Recovery
Release Date: September 2, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-150
» Federal Aid Programs For Virginia Disaster Recovery
Washington, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that President Bush has authorized the use of federal disaster funds to help families and businesses in southeastern Virginia recover from the effects of Tropical Depression Gaston.
Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said the President took the action under a major disaster declaration issued following a review of FEMA’s analysis of the state’s request for federal relief. The declaration covers damage to private property from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding spawned by Gaston beginning August 30.
Immediately after the declaration, Brown designated the independent cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg and Richmond, and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Hanover, Henrico and Prince George eligible for federal aid to stricken residents and business owners.
The assistance, to be coordinated by FEMA, 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 fully compensated by insurance.
In addition, Brown said federal funds will be provided for the state on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that damage surveys are continuing and more jurisdictions and assistance for state and local governments may be designated later based on the results of the assessments.
Marianne Jackson of FEMA was named by Brown to coordinate federal recovery operations. Jackson said that affected residents and business owners in the designated jurisdictions can begin the disaster application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available starting tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
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 all hazards 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: Friday, 03-Sep-2004 23:00:05