First FEMA Checks Mailed to Washington Residents
Release Date: December 11, 2007
Release Number: R10-08-033
SEATTLE, Wash. --- On Sunday, 9 December, FEMA Administrator David Paulison approved Governor Gregoire's request for Individual Assistance for Grays Harbor and Lewis counties to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from the effects of the 1 December storms, and asked those who suffered damage to register for disaster assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing impaired). According to FEMA Regional Administrator Susan Reinertson, more than 1,600 Washingtonians have already registered for assistance.
"The response and recovery efforts of state and local first responders have been no less than heroic. I particularly commend Governor Gregoire's decisive leadership in meeting the emergency needs of her citizens. She literally pulled out all the stops to support Western Washington flood victims in their time of need," said Reinertson. "Our tele-registration lines were opened Sunday afternoon, the first field inspectors deployed to visit the homes of registrants early Monday, and the very first check, for a Grays Harbor resident for $1,740, has already been mailed. Many more will follow."
Reinertson said that additional federal support is being considered. "We are working closely with our state and local partners to assess damage to determine the need for additional federal assistance. I encourage all residents who live outside of Grays Harbor and Lewis counties to report their damages through their local offices of emergency management to ensure that data is available to state officials."
Reinertson encouraged residents of Grays Harbor and Lewis counties not to opt out of the system by failing to register. "I urge residents of the eligible counties to register either through our toll-free number or online at www.fema.gov. A simple 15 minute phone call or a brief visit to the webpage will provide the registrant with comprehensive answers on which services they qualify for."
The Individual Assistance program can help eligible applicants with temporary housing assistance, uninsured personal property and medical, dental, and even funeral expenses caused by the disaster, as well as other serious unmet needs.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 12-Dec-2007 08:21:00