Housing Resources Badly Needed For Storm Ravaged County Residents
Release Date: December 3, 2003
Release Number: 1500-28
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- With well over half of West Virginia counties hard hit by the November storms, housing has surfaced as a crucial need, according to state and federal disaster officials. The storms, flooding and landslides left many homes uninhabitable.
The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is appealing to individuals who have a house, mobile home or apartment to rent to register their rental property with FEMA’s Housing Resource Bank.
“We urge property owners and others who can offer accommodations to call the FEMA Helpline, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585,” said Michael Bolch, federal coordinating officer. “Your call can make all the difference to a desperate family.” Callers should ask to have their property added to the FEMA Housing Resource Bank.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 08-Dec-2003 13:05:59