Disaster Registration Process is Confidential
Release Date: March 7, 2006
Release Number: 1605-192
» More Information on Alabama Hurricane Katrina
MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- The registration information that Alabama residents and evacuees provide when they apply for Hurricane Katrina disaster aid is confidential. It is used only to establish eligibility and prevent duplication of disaster recovery assistance.
When applicants call the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to complete an application, the interview helps determine what disaster assistance programs they may be considered for. The Privacy Act of 1974 restricts FEMA from sharing the information unless the applicant signs a release.
We have one mission and one goal in mind when a family or an individual comes to us for help after a disaster, said Federal Coordinating Officer Michael Bolch, that is to make sure they receive what they are eligible for. Their privacy is protected.
A phone call to FEMA's toll-free registration number, 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired, begins the applicant's review for a number of programs, and prompts referrals to other government and voluntary agencies that may offer specific disaster services. Registration is also possible online at www.fema.gov , a secure site.
Alabamians can be sure that an application with FEMA for disaster assistance is confidential, said State Coordinating Officer Bruce Baughman. We certainly don't want privacy concerns to stop people from filling out an application. They should register so they don't miss out.
Individuals, families, and business owners who suffered losses resulting from Hurricane Katrina have until March 11 to register for disaster aid.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 07-Mar-2006 10:39:47