Pemiscot County Designated For Public Assistance 

Release Date: June 26, 2002
Release Number: 1412-44

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Columbia, MO -- Federal disaster funds have been made available for Pemiscot County to help rebuild public property damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred between April 24 and June 10, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.

FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh said the assistance was approved following a review of damage data gathered by federal and state disaster recovery officials.

The funds were authorized under the major disaster declaration issued by President Bush on May 6 and made available through FEMA's Public Assistance program for state and local governments.

The Public Assistance/Infrastructure Program provides federal funds to reimburse costs up to 75 percent for removing debris, conducting emergency activities and repairing levees, roads, bridges, utility and water control facilities, public buildings and parks. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments and river authorities, as well as some non-profit organizations.

On May 24, Pemiscot County was designated eligible for Individual Assistance, which is designed to help individuals, families and businesses recover from disasters. The aid can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, emergency home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.

Individuals may register for Individual Assistance through July 8 by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). For the hearing- or speech-impaired, the TTY number is 800-462-7585. The registration telephone number is available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Currently, Individual Assistance only is available in nine Missouri counties, Public Assistance only in 31, and aid through both programs in 39.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 11:36:47