Disaster Recovery Center Transitions to Loan Outreach Center 

Release Date: May 10, 2007
Release Number: 1694-019

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PISCATAWAY, N.J. -- The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Trenton Fire Headquarters will transition to a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) beginning Monday, May 14, federal and state disaster officials announced today. The DLOC will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, until further notice.

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and SBA officials opened the DRCs to provide face-to-face assistance and disaster information to individuals and business owners who suffered damage as a result of the April nor’easter storm. The transition to a DLOC emphasizes the federal commitment to the long-term recovery needs of New Jersey residents.

"We believe the transition of the DRC to an SBA office will better meet the current needs of Trenton residents," said Lt. George Georgeles, state coordinating officer for disaster recovery.

SBA representatives will continue to provide homeowners, renters and business owners with face-to-face service in completing their loan applications, answering questions about SBA's loan program, and explaining how an SBA disaster loan can help pay for their disaster losses.

The FEMA helpline is available to assist residents who have questions about their applications or eligibility. Individuals may register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing or speech impaired. Both lines are operational from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, until further notice.

FEMA's temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

FEMA and NJOEM work together to coordinate the federal and state governments' roles 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, 10-May-2007 15:26:52