Disaster Victims Encourged To Register By Phone
Toll free application number available for those affected by Indiana storms
Release Date: June 6, 2004
Release Number: 1520-002
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - A toll-free application telephone number is now operational for those who suffered property damage or loss in the declared counties affected by the tornados and storms beginning May 27, 2004 and continuing.
Justo "Tito" Hernandez, federal coordinating officer, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Luther Taylor, state coordinating officer, said those affected by the disaster may apply for assistance immediately by calling this toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), between 8:00 am to 6:00 pm local time, seven days a week. Those with speech or hearing impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585.
Even if residents have already registered with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency or have reported damage to county or local officials, they must call FEMA's toll-free number to qualify for federal & state assistance.
In response to a request from Governor Joe Kernan on June 2, 2004, President Bush quickly signed a major disaster declaration June 3, 2004. The declaration designated the counties of Clark, Marion, Crawford, Miami & Washington eligible for federal aid to help meet the recovery needs of stricken residents and business owners.
The declaration makes residents of these counties eligible for a wide range of programs which may include assistance with rental payments for temporary housing, grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance to make damaged dwellings safe, sanitary and functional, temporary unemployment payments, and low interest loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA) for individuals and businesses. If you have household insurance, contact your insurer as well as registering with FEMA. Federal disaster assistance may be available to help uninsured or underinsured losses or expenses.
"Your phone call is your application for both state and federal assistance available under the disaster declaration," said Luther Taylor. "Don't prejudge your eligibility. Call the application number now, even if you don't have all the information necessary."
When you call, be prepared to provide a telephone number where you can be reached, your Social Security number, an address where you can receive information, directions to the affected property, a description of the damage, bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance with direct deposit and insurance information.
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: Tuesday, 08-Jun-2004 09:47:06