Disaster Recovery Centers To Open In Affected Municipalities 

Release Date: November 28, 2003
Release Number: 1501-06

» More Information on Puerto Rico Severe Storms, Flooding, Mudslides, and Landslides

SAN JUAN, P.R. -- Officials from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in several municipalities to assist individuals affected by the recent floods. The centers will start on Saturday, November 29, 2003 at 9 a.m.

"The centers are set up to provide answers to questions about disaster assistance programs," said Justo Hernández, federal coordinating officer for the recovery effort. "The only way to register for federal disaster assistance is by calling 1-800-621-3362." (Hearing and speech- impaired individuals may call TTY at 1-800-462-7585)

Some disaster programs include temporary housing assistance, individual and family grants, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans. Written materials about various assistance programs also will also be available to individuals and business owners.

"There will be representatives from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico programs, the municipal government, the Department of the Family, the Department of Housing, and voluntary agencies," said the Governor’s Authorized Representative, Melba Acosta.

"This is a great opportunity for individuals to obtain all the necessary information and have their questions answered concerning the recovery process," Hernández said. "Our goal is to reach the hardest hit communities and stay as long as people continue to use the centers."

The DRCs will operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Sunday until further notice. Additional DRCs will be opened, as needed.

Juana Diaz
Luis Muñoz Marín Sport Complex, Victor "Marzo" Santiago Municipal Basketball Court

Guánica
Club Puertorriqueño, Rd. 3116 2nd Street, Ensenada, Guánica

Patillas
Former Senior Citizen Center, Road 3, Branch 181 Km 18, Patillas

Maunabo
Carmen Hernández Vda. de Martorrel Residential, 1 Santiago Iglesias Street, Maunabo

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, 05-Dec-2003 09:47:26