Three Counties Eligible For Additional Disaster Assistance From Frances
Release Date: September 27, 2004
Release Number: 1545-059
» More Information on Florida Hurricane Frances
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Manatee, Sarasota, and Suwannee counties in Florida have been added to the list of counties declared eligible for federal disaster assistance for individuals and households in the aftermath of Hurricane Frances.
The assistance, to be coordinated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related serious needs and necessary expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.
Residents and business owners who have suffered losses due to Frances can begin the disaster application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for those with hearing and speech impairments. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available 24-hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.
The three counties were previously declared eligible for federal funds to assist in the repair and rebuilding of road systems, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities, parks and other public recreational areas as well as debris removal and emergency services related to the storm for a period of up to 72 hours.
As a result of the intense hurricane activity, FEMA's toll-free teleregistration line received twice as many calls this past month than any previous month in the history of the agency. Additional call centers and personnel have been added, but the volume remains extremely high. Callers are advised that if they get a busy signal, to please be patient and try the call again later.
FEMA is asking the public's assistance in managing call volume to support the agency's effort to prioritize help to those with the greatest need. Owners of commercial properties and residents with only minor losses are urged to wait a few days before calling so those whose homes were destroyed or heavily damaged can be served first. Hurricane victims with insurance coverage should first contact their insurance company or agent before calling FEMA to register.
The State Emergency Response Team (SERT) is a collaboration of Florida’s emergency management agencies led by the state coordinating officer. SERT’s mission is to ensure that Florida is prepared to respond to emergencies, recover from them, and mitigate their impact. Visit http://www.floridadisaster.org for the latest information on the hurricane relief effort.
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, 28-Sep-2004 12:46:16