Use Disaster Housing Funds Wisely
Release Date: October 24, 2002
Release Number: 1435-81
» More Information on Louisiana Tropical Storm Isidore
Use Disaster Housing Funds Wisely
Baton Rouge, LA -- With more than $31.1million in disaster housing funds issued to thousands of flood-stricken Louisianans in the wake of Tropical Storm Isidore and Hurricane Lili, state and federal officials advise recipients that it is important for these checks to be used only for disaster-related damages or losses.
A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) housing assistance check is intended for one of three uses only: for basic housing repairs, short-term rental assistance or reimbursement of hotel/motel expenses:
Every housing assistance request is treated individually, and each situation is different. After the applicant's information is reviewed by FEMA Human Services, a determination is made according to the applicant's need and the disaster assistance allowed by law.
In order to speed funds to eligible applicants, the U.S. Treasury Department issues the assistance check, with a brief notice, explaining that the funds are for disaster-related emergency needs, and that a separate letter is being mailed from FEMA specifying the use of the disaster aid.
The check and letter of explanation may not necessarily arrive on the same day. All assistance provided by FEMA should be used for its intended purpose. Failure to use the tax-free money as specified may make recipients ineligible for additional assistance.
The letter also urges recipients to rebuild with disaster prevention in mind. Examples include raising electrical junction boxes and elevating major appliances to minimize floodwater damage.
Additional mitigation information is available at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers currently operating in declared parishes. FEMA and the state also provide disaster resistance information on the following websites:
http://www.fema.gov/library/prepandprev.shtm
http://www.Louisianafloods.org
The notice provides a FEMA Helpline for applicants with questions or the need for more information, 800-621-FEMA (3362) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) for the speech or hearing impaired.
To report fraud, waste or abuse in FEMA programs call 800-323-8603.
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Repairs are intended to return the home to a safe, sanitary and secure condition;
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Short-term rental assistance is based on the fair market rental rates in the affected area. Applicants who must remain in temporary housing for a longer period than the check covers may request more assistance until their home can be re-occupied or other permanent housing arrangements can be made; and
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Reimbursement for hotel or motel expenses are for out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the disaster. Receipts for these expenses will be requested.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 19-Mar-2003 15:51:53