FEMA Registration Opens Door To Federal Disaster Assistance
Release Date: June 29, 2006
Release Number: 1642-017
» More Information on Massachusetts Severe Storms and Flooding
ANDOVER, Mass. -- 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.
"Reporting damage to local officials does not mean that you are in the FEMA system," said Federal Coordinating Officer Phil Parr. "We cannot provide assistance until you have called the registration number or applied online."
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 http://www.fema.gov. Lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
On May 25, 2006, President George W. Bush declared a major disaster for Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk Counties for severe storms and flooding that struck Massachusetts beginning May 12. The declaration allows homeowners, renters and business owners in these counties who sustained damages to apply for aid.
"Everyone affected by the May flood event should register," said Cristine McCombs, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) director and state coordinating officer. "Our objective is to see the residents in the three declared counties receive all the assistance and support that is available to them."
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: Wednesday, 06-Dec-2006 09:29:44