Disaster Recovery Centers Continue To Serve Areas In Need 

Release Date: December 6, 2004
Release Number: 1549-094

» More Information on Alabama Hurricane Ivan

MOBILE, Ala. -- Since the first Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opened after Hurricane Ivan hit in September, 21 centers have assisted more than 45,000 residents who had damages and losses from the storm. Currently, four DRCs remain open to provide applicants with information and services.

“We want to remind disaster victims they can visit any DRC in operation, regardless of location,” said State Coordinating Officer Bruce Baughman. “And we want to assure people that we will not close a center as long as there is a need.”

The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) continue to review DRC activity on a daily basis to determine how to best serve those still in need.

Representatives of state, federal, and voluntary agencies, as well as loan officers from the U.S. Small Business Administration, are on hand at DRCs to answer questions and provide recovery information. Mitigation personnel can provide applicants with information and advice on how to repair or rebuild a damaged home or structure safely.

DRCs also provide individuals an opportunity to meet face-to-face with recovery specialists to ask questions about their application, or update the registration information they provided when they first called FEMA for assistance.

To register for assistance, individuals and businesses should first call 800-621-FEMA (3362). Persons who are speech- or hearing-impaired can call 800﷓462﷓7585. Phones are open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Online registration is available at www.fema.gov. The deadline to apply for assistance is Jan. 3, 2005.

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: Monday, 06-Dec-2004 16:35:03