FEMA Approves $2 Million In New Jersey Aid Less Than One Week After Disaster Declaration 

Release Date: May 3, 2007
Release Number: 1694-007

» More Information on New Jersey Severe Storms and Inland and Coastal Flooding

PISCATAWAY, N.J. -- Less than one week after President Bush approved a disaster declaration for New Jersey as a result of April's nor'easter storm and flooding, more than $2 million in federal assistance to New Jersey residents has been approved, FEMA officials announced today.

"When you see numbers like these so early in the recovery process, you get some insight into the extent of this disaster," said Federal Coordinating Officer for New Jersey Peter J. Martinasco, who also coordinated the federal aid effort after Hurricane Floyd in 1999.  "The people of New Jersey really took a hit with this storm. This money should speed their repair and recovery efforts.'

By close of business Wednesday, the federal Individual Assistance program approved more than $1.1 million for Bergen County residents.  Bergen also led the state in number of applications for assistance, with more than 2,200 registered by Wednesday night. Statewide, more than 6,200 have registered for assistance. Of the $2 million already approved, $1.8 million is in housing assistance, with over $220,000 approved for other needs.

New Jersey residents affected by the storm and floods have 60 days from the date of the presidential declaration on April 26th to register. To register, residents can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go online to www.FEMA.gov. Speech and hearing impaired residents can call TTY:1-800-462-7585.

"We want to reach all New Jersey residents eligible for federal assistance," said Lt. George Georgeles, NJ Office of Emergency Management. "Between the federal and our state programs, there are a lot of resources available. We want to make sure people access them to speed their own recovery, and that of the state."

FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Last Modified: Thursday, 03-May-2007 15:55:25