Thousands Call to Apply for Disaster Assistance 

Release Date: February 9, 2002
Release Number: 1401-04

» More Information on Oklahoma Ice Storm

Oklahoma City, OK -- Almost 3,000 Oklahomans affected by the recent winter ice storm have applied for state/federal disaster assistance. In just one day since Director Joe M. Allbaugh, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), announced that individual assistance was available, 2,892 people have called to apply.

Oklahoma residents who live or work in any of the 45 designated counties eligible for individual assistance can apply for assistance simply by picking up the phone and placing a toll-free call, according to state and federal disaster recovery officials. "Don't hesitate to apply for the assistance you may need," Federal Coordinating Officer James Roche said.

Those affected by the winter ice storm in the disaster-designated counties can apply for assistance immediately by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech or hearing impairment can call 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). Both lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice and multi-lingual operators are available.

State Coordinating Officer Fred Liebe encouraged everyone who suffered damage to call the FEMA toll-free registration number. "With one call, individuals can apply for a wide range of disaster assistance," said Liebe, Recovery Director for the Oklahoma Department of Civil Emergency Management (ODCEM). Housing and home repair assistance, low-interest loans for individuals and businesses, and individual and family grants are available to help disaster victims.

Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered by your insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other types of help may come in the form of loans. The FEMA representative will explain the details to you when you call.

Counties eligible for individual disaster assistance include Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Cimarron, Cleveland, Comanche, Creek, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Kay, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Lincoln, Logan, Major, McClain, Noble, Nowata, Oklahoma, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, Rogers, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Tulsa, Washington, Washita, Woods, and Woodward.

Last Modified: Monday, 25-Aug-2003 13:25:29