Disaster Recovery Center in York To Close But Help Is Still Available 

Release Date: December 15, 2003
Release Number: 1491-131

» More Information on Virginia Hurricane Isabel

RICHMOND, Va -- The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in York located in the Caritas Building, 1000 Old York Hampton Highway, will close at 5 p.m. Saturday, December 20. The application period for those who suffered damage or loss from Hurricane Isabel ended Monday, December 8, 2003.

"Federal and state agencies opened up 39 Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) throughout the Commonwealth after Hurricane Isabel hit Virginia. Those DRCs served over 20,000 residents by providing information about disaster assistance programs, help in contacting other agencies and volunteer organizations; crisis counseling, and contact with representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The DRC presence in the various communities was of enormous help to those who suffered loss or damage because of the hurricane," said State Coordinating Officer Michael Cline.

State and federal officials want residents to know that help is still just a phone call away. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) toll-free Helpline number is available for those who have questions, or want to check on the status of their applications. The number is 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585. The Helpline is open daily 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

FEMA and VDEM opened Disaster Recovery Centers to provide an opportunity for people who sustained losses and damage as a result of Hurricane Isabel to meet one-on-one with disaster specialists to check the status of their application; learn about a variety of federal, state and local disaster programs; and get information on how to prevent future damages from severe storms.

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: Monday, 15-Dec-2003 08:44:52