FEMA and New York Disaster Grants Available For WTC Victims
Release Date: November 15, 2001
Release Number: 1391-43
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New York, NY -- As part of the federal/state disaster relief for the World Trade Center (WTC) attack, the Individual and Family Grant (IFG) program is in place to help those affected cover the costs of necessary expenses and serious disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance or other programs. To date, more than $1 million in grants has been approved for eligible applicants.
"The IFG program is a safety net for people who are still struggling with financial obligations from the attack," said Edward F. Jacoby, Jr., state coordinating officer. "It's meant to cover essential needs. And it is only a phone call away."
Under the IFG program the following items may be eligible for grant awards:
- Home repairs
- Replacement of personal property
- Transportation
- Reimbursement for damage estimates
- Moving and storage
- Vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter
- Air filters/Air purifiers
How much money one receives depends upon the applicant's disaster-related needs. In order to receive federal/state assistance, those affected must register with FEMA at 1-800-462-9029. TTY service is available at 1-800-462-7585 for anyone who is hearing- or speech-impaired.
The FEMA-funded program is administered by the state and cannot duplicate benefits already covered by other agencies. For example, the state Crime Victims Board now covers medical, dental and funeral expenses, normally handled by the IFG program.
The IFG program provides immediate emergency assistance to those individuals who do not qualify for low-interest loans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Following a referral by the SBA, applicants considered for the IFG program are quickly notified by the state regarding their eligibility for the grant program.
Even if an applicant believes he or she will not qualify for an SBA loan, it is necessary to return the completed SBA packet to continue the process. The SBA must determine that the applicant is ineligible before the applicant's situation can be reviewed for an IFG grant.
Last Modified: Monday, 06-Oct-2003 13:10:55