Registration/Help Lines To Close For Memorial Day Weekend
Release Date: May 23, 2002
Release Number: 1410-40
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
Beckley, WV -- In honor of Memorial Day, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) toll-free registration and Helpline will be closed on Sunday, May 26, and Monday, May 27. The lines will resume operation on Tuesday, May 28.
Those affected may apply for assistance by calling the toll-free number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., until further notice. Hearing or speech-impaired individuals may call TTY at 1-800-462-7585.
Calling the toll-free registration number is the initial step in applying for a wide range of federal and state disaster assistance programs. An applicant who has applied to FEMA for assistance may update his or her information or check the application's status by calling the FEMA number.
President George W. Bush declared four counties in West Virginia major disaster areas on May 5 after the recent severe storms, flooding and landslides. The declaration opened the way for assistance to individuals and families who suffered damage in McDowell, Mercer, Mingo and Wyoming counties.
Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate an individual for an entire loss. If an individual has insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under an insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other help may come in the form of loans.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 17:07:14