Federal Disaster Aid Extended To Nine More Florida Counties
Release Date: September 7, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-169
» More Information on Florida Hurricane Frances
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Federal disaster aid for people victimized by Hurricane Frances has been extended to include the counties of Alachua, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Hendry, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia, the head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.
Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said stricken residents are eligible to apply for federal assistance that 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 are available to cover residential and businesses losses not fully compensated by insurance.
The newly added jurisdictions bring to 27 the number of Florida counties that have been designated for aid to homeowners, renters and businesses. The counties previously designated for the assistance include Brevard, Broward, Citrus, Glades, Hernando, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Martin, Miami-Dade, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Polk, St. Lucie and Sumter.
Affected residents and business owners in the designated counties 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 are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.
Brown said that those in the counties that were designated for aid for Hurricane Charley are eligible to apply for assistance again for damage caused by Frances.
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: Thursday, 09-Sep-2004 10:57:20