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Release Date: May 18, 2002
Release Number: 1412-09

» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Tornadoes

Poplar Bluff, MO -- If you suffered damage from the recent severe storms and tornadoes April 24 to 28, you may be eligible for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) even though you are insured. FEMA also may be able to help storm victims who are uninsured, underinsured or whose insurance policies do not cover all expenses, damages or losses.

The disaster-assistance programs available include temporary housing, individual and family grants, disaster unemployment assistance, low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners, renters or business owners, and other aid programs.

Anyone who sustained damage from the severe storms and tornadoes should take the first step in applying for help by calling FEMA's teleregistration number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 1-800-462-7585 for speech- or hearing-impaired. These registration numbers are available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice.

When you register, you will be given an application number. Then, if you need one-on-one help concerning your application or the available disaster assistance programs, you may visit one of the four Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) opened by FEMA and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

Operating hours for the DRCs are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice. They are located in Ellsinore, 6 Mineral Dr.; Marble Hill, 101 First St.; Poplar Bluff, 101 South Main St. (opening Monday, May 20); and Willow Springs, 112 East Main St. (opening Tuesday, May 21). Representatives of FEMA and loan officers from SBA will be present to help answer your questions.

People should never rule themselves out for disaster recovery assistance. One or more state or federal programs designed to help people rebuild after a disaster may be available to meet needs not addressed in individuals' insurance coverage. Since insurance settlements may take several months, it is important to register before Monday, July 8, the date that ends the 60-day registration period following the federal declaration of a disaster

Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 14:33:50