Seven More Counties Designated For Federal And State Assistance
Release Date: November 26, 2002
Release Number: 1439-22
» More Information on Texas Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
Corpus Christi, TX -- State and federal officials today announced that individual disaster assistance is now available for residents of Brazoria, Cameron, Fort Bend, Hidalgo, Jasper, Kleberg, and San Jacinto counties. Those who suffered losses from recent severe storms and flooding from Oct. 24 through Nov. 15 may be eligible for disaster assistance.
Sandy Coachman, federal coordinating officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said the assistance was approved based on a review of damages gathered by federal, state and local disaster recovery officials.
Under the major disaster declaration issued by President Bush on November 5, Nueces County became the first county eligible for aid. The counties of Aransas, Hardin, Harris, Jefferson, Orange and San Patricio were added to the declaration on November 8 and Liberty and Montgomery counties were added on Nov. 15. Jim Wells County was later added on Nov. 21. With the new additions, the total number of designated counties is now 17.
"We remain committed to making sure that all qualified people get the help they need," Coachman said.
The designation means that residents of the additional counties are eligible to apply for a variety of programs, including disaster housing assistance, low interest loans to repair or replace storm-damaged property or grants for serious needs and necessary expenses not met by other programs.
"Texas has been hit by severe storms three times in four months," said Duke Mazurek, state coordinating officer for the Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Public Safety. Mazurek urges folks who applied for disaster aid from previous storms to reapply if they suffered losses again. "Let us know your latest damage," he said. "Let us help you get back on the road to recovery."
Affected homeowners, renters and business owners may apply for assistance by calling the toll-free number 1-800-621 FEMA (3362) until 2 p.m. (central time) on Wednesday, November 27. The registration line will not be available on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, but the normal operational schedule will resume on Friday, November 29 from 8 a. m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. Those with speech or hearing impairments may call TTY 800-462-7585.
Last Modified: Monday, 21-Apr-2003 16:05:49