Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Aid Tazewell Flood Victims
Release Date: July 15, 2001
Release Number: 1386-02
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Tazewell, VA -- Federal and state disaster officials overseeing the joint recovery effort now underway in Tazewell County said a toll-free tele-registration number is now available for eligible residents who suffered property damage or loss caused by flooding, July 8-10.
Marianne Jackson, federal coordinating officer, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and George Foresman, state coordinating officer, Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), said those affected by the disaster may apply for assistance immediately by calling 1-800-462-9029, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Individuals with speech or hearing impairments who use special keyboard equipment (TTY) should call toll-free 1-800-462-7585.
The disaster officials emphasized that tele-registration is the essential first step to apply for federal/state disaster assistance. "Your phone call is your one-stop application for state and federal assistance," Jackson said. "It has proven to be the simplest, quickest, and most efficient way to apply."
"Disaster-housing inspectors were visiting county residents who registered in the first days of the disaster," Jackson said, "Checks totaling more than $78,000 in immediate disaster assistance grants have already been approved for early applicants, and it has been less than a week since the declaration."
Foresman said that individuals who have insurance should not wait until their claims are reviewed before registering. "Don't try to guess whether or not you are eligible," he said. "Even if you don't have all the information necessary or it was lost in the flooding, register first. By registering, applicants protect their future eligibility to ask for assistance in case of any underinsured or lack-of-coverage loss."
Foresman also urged area residents to begin cleaning up their homes immediately without waiting for disaster housing inspectors or insurance adjustors to visit. "If possible, take a picture of any damaged property before throwing it out, but getting water-soaked, moldy, household goods out of your house should be your first priority."
The recovery officials said that even if residents previously registered with the Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency, or reported damage to local officials, they still must register by calling the application number. Residents and business owners who suffered damage or loss and have insurance coverage should also immediately contact their insurance company. When calling to apply, applicants are urged to have the following information available:
- Your current phone number;
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
- Your Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses you suffered;
- Good directions to the property that was damaged;
- If insured, your insurance policy number or the agent and company name; and,
- General financial information.
In response to a request by Governor Jim Gilmore, President Bush signed a major disaster declaration on Thursday, July 12. The declaration makes residents and business owners in Tazewell County eligible for a wide range of programs. Assistance includes funding for disaster housing assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, and grants for serious need and necessary expenses not met by other programs. In addition, the declaration provides cost-sharing funding to the state for approved projects that can reduce future disaster risk.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 14-Oct-2003 15:26:29