FEMA'S Disaster Housing Assistance 

Release Date: February 1, 1999
Release Number: 1266-10

» More Information on Arkansas Severe Storms, Tornadoes, High Winds and Flooding

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Arkansas Office of Emergency Services (OES) are together responding as quickly as possible to the temporary housing needs of homeowners and renters who are victims of the recent severe storms, tornadoes and high winds. FEMA's disaster housing assistance program offers help to Arkansas disaster victims through rental assistance and through home-repair grants.

Graham Nance, Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) and David Maxwell, State Coordinating Officer (SCO), are urging those whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the storms to register for this program. "Our top priority is to make sure that everyone is living in safe, habitable and secure housing," said Nance. In order to qualify for disaster housing assistance, the applicant first must call the FEMA registration number at 1-800-462-9029 (TTY 1-800-462-7585). The following information will help applicants who may qualify for one of the programs listed below:

The housing program offers grants to homeowners and rental assistance to renters whose primary residences have been so affected that they need alternative housing.

For this disaster, homeowners initially may receive three months rental assistance and renters may receive two months rental assistance while repairs are being made to make their homes livable. If there is still a need for assistance following the initial period, disaster victims should call the FEMA Hotline at 1-800-525-0321 (TTY 1-800-660-8005).

Under the repair-grant program, up to $10,000 can be distributed to homeowners for making essential repairs to make the home livable. The amount provided to homeowners is based on the extent of eligible damage under the program as verified by a FEMA inspection. The actual amount of the grant takes into account homeowners' or renters' insurance that applicants may have. An applicant's insurance settlement is subtracted from the amount of the grant.

The emergency mortgage and rental assistance provides mortgage and rental assistance to eligible homeowners and renters who, as a result of the disaster, have lost their jobs or businesses and face foreclosure or eviction from their homes.

Last Modified: Thursday, 18-Dec-2003 12:04:55