Travel Trailers To Provide Temporary Housing In Buchanan County 

Release Date: May 18, 2002
Release Number: 1411-16

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Wise, VA -- State and federal officials announced today that travel trailers are being provided to meet the immediate housing needs for individuals who have been displaced as a result of the severe weather from April 28 through May 3. The first travel trailer arrived Friday, May 17 and placement is underway.

Officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), along with state and local representatives, have been making assessments of the rental housing resources in the affected counties and found a lack of available housing.

"When compared to the number of people needing temporary housing, there is a serious shortfall of apartments and rental properties," said Louis Botta, federal coordinating officer. "Travel trailers are being brought in to fill an immediate need. They will provide people with a short-term place to live while they work to fulfill their permanent housing needs, whether that means finding a new home or repairing an existing one."

Anyone who would like to be considered for a travel trailer, or has questions regarding travel trailers should visit the Disaster Recovery Centers at the Hurley Middle School or the old County Administration Building in Tazewell. However, the Tazewell center will only remain open through May 22. Individuals who suffered damage to their home should first register for assistance by calling FEMA toll-free at 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362). Individuals with hearing or speech impairments may call TTY 1-800-462-7585.

Residents who wish to have a trailer must have attempted to locate a rental resource on their own or through FEMA's rental listings. The travel trailers can be placed at a person's home - in the driveway or on the property while home repairs are underway - or in established trailer parks in area communities. The placement of all travel trailers must be in compliance with all federal, state and local government rules and regulations for zoning, building, health and safety.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 16:22:58