Two Disaster Recovery Centers To Close Saturday 

Release Date: October 21, 2004
Release Number: 1555-043

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HARRISBURG, Pa. -- State and federal disaster recovery officials are reminding residents that two previously extended Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will close on Saturday, Oct. 23.

"The centers will be closing in a few days but that doesn’t put an end to getting assistance," said David M. Sanko, state coordinating officer. "Calling FEMA’s toll-free teleregistration number will still allow those who qualify to receive aid."

Homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered damages because of September’s flooding can register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). People with hearing or speech impairments may call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Online registration is also available at www.fema.gov.

The Disaster Recovery Centers are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The following centers will close on Saturday, Oct. 23:

Allegheny County - Community College of Allegheny, Allegheny Campus, Physical Education Building, 845 Ridge Ave., Pittsburgh
Washington County - Washington Mall (Old Nat’l Record Mart Bldg.) 301 Oakspring Road, Washington

"Nearly 7,000 people have visited the Disaster Recovery Centers to get additional information from state and federal specialists helping with disaster-related needs," said Federal Coordinating Officer Tom Davies.

The Disaster Recovery Centers have been providing information about disaster housing assistance, flood insurance and homeowner’s insurance, health and welfare assistance, well-water testing, crisis counseling, and senior citizen services.

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: Thursday, 21-Oct-2004 13:42:18