Temporary Change Of Hours For Polk County Disaster Recovery Center 

Release Date: November 8, 2004
Release Number: 1539-259

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ORLANDO, Fla. -- State and federal officials announce that the Polk County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), located in the Eagle Ridge Mall, is amending their hours of operation temporarily.

Management from the Eagle Ridge Mall has advised the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), that work has been scheduled to replace the overhead skylights throughout the mall, subsequently affecting the hours of daily operation. This change is estimated to last approximately six (6) weeks. Notice will be given when the work is done and normal hours of operation resume.

Effective immediately, the present hours, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. will change to 9 a.m.to7 p.m.
Monday through Saturday.

The DRC in Polk County is located at the following address:

Eagle Ridge Mall
451 Eagle Ridge Drive (HWY 27)
Unit # 308
Lake Wales, Fla. 33853

The remaining 40 DRCs will continue be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. statewide, Monday through Saturday to serve those in need.

Floridians affected by the recent hurricanes are still urged to register for assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number is 1-800-462-7585 for those who are speech- or hearing-impaired. After applying, those who have questions may visit a center to meet face-to-face with recovery specialists.

If there is an immediate need and there are no alternatives available in your area, call the Florida Hurricane Housing Hotline at 1-888-472-1727.

Representatives of state, federal, and voluntary agencies, as well as loan officers from the U.S. Small Business Administration, will be on hand to answer questions and provide recovery 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: Monday, 08-Nov-2004 18:56:36