Federal Disaster Aid Ordered For Virginia Storm Victims 

Release Date: May 5, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-043

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Washington, DC -- Federal disaster aid has been made available to help families and businesses in Virginia recover from flooding rains and other violent weather that struck the state last week, according to the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh said the assistance was authorized under a major disaster declaration issued by President Bush this afternoon following a review of the agency's analysis of the state's request for federal relief. The declaration covers damage to private property from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred over the period of April 28-May 3.

Immediately after the declaration, Allbaugh designated the counties of Buchanan and Tazewell eligible for aid to stricken residents and business owners.

The assistance, to be coordinated by FEMA, can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, emergency 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, Allbaugh said federal funding will be provided to the state on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that damage surveys are continuing and more jurisdictions and additional forms of assistance may be designated later based on the result of the assessments.

Louis H. Botta of FEMA was named by Allbaugh to coordinate federal relief operations. Botta said affected residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process on Monday, May 6, 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 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 16:45:44