Disaster Recovery Center To Open In Onondaga County 

Release Date: November 20, 2004
Release Number: 1564-032

» More Information on New York Severe Storms and Flooding

ALBANY, N.Y. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) announce the opening of a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to assist those who suffered losses and damages as a direct result of the severe storms that occurred Aug. 13- Sept. 16. Starting Monday, November 22, the DRC will be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week, except Thanksgiving Day, at the following location:

Town of Manlius Town Hall
301 Brooklea Drive
Fayetteville, NY 13066

Representatives from FEMA, the State of New York, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the DRC to provide information on disaster recovery programs. SBA loan officers will be available to help fill out applications for long-term, low-interest loans for homeowners, renters and business owners.

Before going to a DRC, individuals should call FEMA’s toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), to apply for assistance. People with hearing or speech impairments may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Lines remain open from 6 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday. Those with Internet access can apply online at www.fema.gov.

“Calling FEMA’s toll-free registration number is the first step to receiving help from federal and state programs,” said James W. Tuffey, Director of the New York State Emergency Management Office. “It isn’t necessary to visit a DRC unless you need additional disaster assistance information.”

Those who have registered and still have questions should visit a DRC. The information center is a great resource for people who would like to ask questions about the status of their applications, update personal information and talk with mitigation specialists about how to reduce damages from future flooding.

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, 22-Nov-2004 09:10:22