Disaster Recovery Center to End Operation in Jasper County
Release Date: October 9, 2008
Release Number: 1791-105
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AUSTIN, Texas -- The FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center in Jasper County will end operations at the close of business Friday, Oct. 10.
Until then, the center will be open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at the Central Baptist Church, 33814 US Highway 96 South, Buna, TX 77612.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) jointly run the recovery centers to assist Texans whose losses and property damage were the direct result of Hurricane Ike. Since the center opened in September, more than 370 residents received face-to-face assistance.
"We are determined to make sure every Texan affected by Hurricane Ike gets all help possible," State Coordinating Officer Joan Haun said. "Even when the local center demand drops enough that it closes, FEMA information is still available through its toll-free number."
Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman underscored Haun's view. "More than 680,000 people have applied for disaster assistance and we want them to follow through with the process by staying in touch with FEMA through the Helpline," she said.
Although the center is closing, residents will be able to apply or follow up on their applications by going online to www.fema.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or TTY 1-800-462-7585.
Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repair and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also are available for homeowners, renters and business owners for losses not covered by insurance or other sources. Homeowners, renters and business owners with questions should call the Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955.
Information about recovery centers still open is available at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/pages/dr1791_drc_list.htm.
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: Thursday, 09-Oct-2008 15:59:19