Toll-Free Application Number Available For Those Affected In Ohio By Flooding
Release Date: August 5, 2003
Release Number: 1484-01
» More Information on Ohio Tornadoes, Flooding, Severe Storms, and High Winds
Cridersville, OH -- A toll-free telephone number to register for disaster-related losses or costs is now available to residents and businesses in Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Summit and Trumbull counties who suffered property damage or loss from flooding and severe weather that struck Ohio in July.
Ron Sherman, federal coordinating officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and deputy state coordinating officer Richard Roman said those affected by the disaster should register for assistance immediately by calling this toll-free number,
1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until further notice. Those with speech or hearing impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585.
"Your phone call is your registration for both state and federal assistance available under the disaster declaration," Roman said. "Telephone registration has proven to be the simplest, quickest, most efficient and confidential way to apply."
Even if residents have already registered with the Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency or have reported damage to county or local officials, they can only register for the state and federal assistance programs by calling FEMA's toll-free number.
In response to a request from Governor Taft, President Bush signed a major disaster declaration August 1. Disaster victims in the designated counties now are eligible for federal aid to help meet their recovery needs.
The declaration may make residents of these counties eligible for a wide range of programs such as grants for temporary disaster housing assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, grants for serious disaster-related needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs, and disaster unemployment assistance.
When calling to register, have the following information available:
- Your current phone number
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying:
- Your Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses you suffered;
- If insured, the name of your company or agent and your policy number;
- General financial information; and
- Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance with direct deposit
"Don't prejudge your eligibility, even if you don't have all the information necessary or it was lost in the flooding," Roman added. "It's important that all residents get the assistance to which they are entitled."
Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and normally will not compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under your insurance policy. Residents also should contact their insurance agent. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans. A FEMA representative will explain the details when you call.
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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Aug-2003 09:23:14