Toll-Free Application Number Available for Those Affected By Storms and Flooding
Release Date: February 4, 2008
Release Number: 1740-002
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms and Flooding
LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today a toll-free application telephone number for residents who suffered property damage or loss in the severe storms and flooding that occurred during the period of Jan. 7, and continuing.
Mike Smith, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer, and J. Eric Dietz, State Coordinating Officer and IDHS executive director, urge residents of nine designated Indiana counties who were affected by the disaster to apply for assistance immediately by calling, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll free number will be in operation from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (local time) Monday through Sunday. Those with speech or hearing impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Registration can also be done online anytime at www.fema.gov.
President Bush signed a disaster declaration designating Carroll, Cass, Elkhart, Fulton, Jasper, Marshall, Pulaski, Tippecanoe and White counties eligible for federal aid to help meet the recovery needs of stricken residents and business owners. The declaration makes residents of these counties eligible for a wide range of programs such as funding for temporary housing assistance, replacement grants for serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are also available for homeowners, renters and business owners to repair or replace damaged property.
"Don't prejudge your eligibility. If you think you have damage related to the storm, register with FEMA," Smith said. "Call even if you don't have all the information necessary or it was lost in the flooding. It's important that all residents get the assistance available to them as quickly as possible,"
"Even if you have already registered with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army or another voluntary agency or have reported damage to state, county or local officials, you can apply for the federal programs only by going to www.fema.gov or calling FEMA's toll-free number," said Dietz.
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: Tuesday, 05-Feb-2008 08:19:45