Disaster Recovery Centers Begin New Hours Of Operation
Release Date: November 26, 2004
Release Number: 1539-289
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Beginning Monday, November 29, 2004, all Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) statewide will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (local time), Monday through Saturday. There are presently 43 centers in operation – 39 fixed sites and four mobile units [listings for all center locations are attached].
There is one exception to the new hours change. The Eagle Ridge Mall DRC, 451 Eagle Ridge Drive, Unit 308 in Lake Wales, Fl. 33853 – Polk County - will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice.
DRCs provide disaster registrants in the areas they serve with an opportunity to check on the status of their applications and meet with federal and state disaster program representatives, as well as loan officers from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Those impacted by recent hurricanes are urged to register for assistance first by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number is 1-800-462-7585 for those who are speech- or hearing-impaired. Both numbers operate from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight, seven days a week. After applying, those who have questions may visit a center to meet face-to-face with recovery specialists.
Applicants may also register online by going to the FEMA website at http://www.fema.gov and clicking on the red “hot-link” button in the upper right-hand portion of the page marked “Register for Disaster Assistance Online.”
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: Friday, 26-Nov-2004 16:05:54