First Disaster Checks Begin Helping Missouri Storm Victims 

Release Date: March 21, 2006
Release Number: 1631-005

» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

COLUMBIA , MO. –- In the first five days since Missourians in nine declared counties began registering for disaster assistance, more than $137,420 in federal and state disaster assistance grants has been approved for people affected by the severe storms, tornados, and flooding from March 11 to 13, state and federal officials announced today.

Since the federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Blunt was approved March 16, nearly 350 people in the nine eligible counties have registered for federal and state assistance online at www.fema.gov or by calling the toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Both phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.

Inspectors from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have inspected 63 residences so far to determine the extent of damage and possible level of assistance.

The total approved includes $73,888 in federal disaster housing grants for 26 households, and $63,534 in federal and state funds to help 13 households meet other disaster-related needs, including replacement of lost personal property and disaster-related medical, dental and transportation expenses not covered by insurance of other sources.

To date, 84 people have visited the assistance centers set up to answer questions and provide information for registrants. The first three mobile centers opened March 19, with hours of 9a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

"I cannot stress enough the importance of calling the FEMA Disaster Assistance telephone registration number. This call is the first step in the recovery process for individuals and businesses for who suffered severe weather and tornado damages," said Tom Costello, FEMA's federal coordinating officer in Missouri .

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 (NFIP). FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 22-Mar-2006 09:10:51