New Hours Announced For Disaster Aid Numbers
Release Date: July 15, 2004
Release Number: 1518-049
» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Officials today announced new hours for two disaster-assistance telephone numbers. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division (HLSEM) urged Iowans who suffered losses due to recent severe storms, tornadoes or flooding to apply for aid before the July 26 deadline.
New hours for FEMA’s toll-free registration and helpline number are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number is 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number for those who are speech- or hearing-impaired is 1-800-462-7585. Registrations will continue to be taken through July 26.
Effective this Monday, July 19, hours for Other Needs Assistance telephone services are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number is 1-866-434-4692 and the TTY number is 1-800-735-2942.
Hours remain the same for the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA), which offers low-interest home and business loans after disasters. SBA telephone assistance is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1-800-366-6303.
The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division was known as the Iowa Emergency Management Division until July 2003. The current name reflects the dual nature of the Division to provide programs and resources for both homeland security and emergency management efforts.
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, 15-Jul-2004 13:23:26