Maine Flood Victims Must Apply To Receive Federal/State Aid
Release Date: June 2, 2006
Release Number: 1644-003b
» More Information on Maine Severe Storms and Flooding
NEWINGTON, N.H. -- State and federal disaster officials are concerned that persons eligible for disaster aid from the recent storms may not be applying for aid under the erroneous assumption that by reporting damages to state and local officials or to the American Red Cross they have already applied for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance. They must, however, apply directly to FEMA to receive assistance.
The only way to apply for state /federal assistance is by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for hearing and speech impaired or by applying on line at www.fema.gov. Lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.
“It is important that Maine residents suffering damages from the recent flooding apply to FEMA to begin the assistance process,” said Kenneth Clark, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for this disaster. “We cannot provide assistance until you have called the registration number or applied online.”
On May 25, President George W. Bush declared a major disaster for York County, Maine for severe storms and flooding that struck beginning May 13. The declaration allows homeowners, renters and business owners in York County who sustained damages to apply for aid.
“We continue to work closely with federal, state and local agencies to get assurance that affected Maine residents will be able to take advantage of all resources through the recovery and rebuilding stages,” said Steve Burgess state coordinating officer for the state of Maine.
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.
The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has statutory responsibility for statewide coordination of emergency preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. MEMA is a bureau of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Dec-2006 12:02:46