FEMA Awards Grant to Support Crisis Counseling in New York Counties Affected By Flooding
Release Date: August 10, 2006
Release Number: 1650-045
» More Information on New York Severe Storms and Flooding
ALBANY, N.Y. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has funded a $393,804 grant to the State of New York to provide immediate crisis counseling services for those affected by the late June flooding.
"Losing a home, business, or personal property to disaster takes a financial toll," said Marianne C. Jackson, federal coordinating officer. "But the emotional toll a disaster exacts can be devastating, too, and that toll also needs to be addressed."
Crisis counseling helps people deal with emotional reactions, such as sadness or anger, caused by stressful situations.
"Stress can show up in many unexpected ways when a disaster strikes," said State Coordinating Officer John R. Gibb, Director of the New York State Emergency Management Office. "The best way to combat stress is to have professionals available to help those who may feel overwhelmed when situations are beyond their control."
Examples of primary services provided by the grant include: brief educational or supportive contact, individual and group crisis counseling, public education, assessment and referral, and community networking/support.
To register for federal and state assistance, call FEMA's registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) . Individuals with hearing or speech impairments should call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. The lines are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. You can also register online at www.fema.gov. The deadline for registration with FEMA is September 1, 2006.
To register for New York 's State Individual and Family Grant Program, calling 1-888-7-NYS-AID (1-888-769-7243) or (TTY) NYS Relay 711or register online at www.labor.state.ny.us. The State lines are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. The deadline for State registration is September 5, 2006.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Thursday, 10-Aug-2006 10:46:58