President Orders Disaster Aid For Ohio Storm Victims
Release Date: August 1, 2003
Release Number: HQ-03-163
» More Information on Ohio Tornadoes, Flooding, Severe Storms, and High Winds
Washington, DC -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that President Bush has ordered federal disaster aid for Ohio families and businesses victimized by severe storms and other extreme weather that struck the state in late July.
Michael D. Brown, FEMA Director and Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response at Homeland Security, said the President authorized the aid following a review of FEMA's analysis of the state's request for federal assistance. The declaration covers damage to private property from severe storms, tornadoes, high winds and flooding that began on July 21.
After the declaration, Brown designated the counties of Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Summit and Trumbull eligible for aid to stricken residents that can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also will be available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.
In addition, Brown said cost-shared funding will be available to the state for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that damage surveys are continuing and additional counties and assistance for state and local government agencies may be designated later based on the results of the assessments.
Ron Sherman of FEMA was named by Brown to coordinate the federal relief effort. Sherman said affected residents and business owners in the designated counties can begin the disaster application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available starting tomorrow, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
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 Citizens Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 04-Aug-2003 10:42:41