Helpline Available For Questions Or Updating Application
Release Date: January 14, 2003
Release Number: 1446-26
» More Information on Guam Super Typhoon Pongsona
Dededo, Guam -- Information on the status for disaster assistance for those who have already applied is just a phone call away. Individuals and businesses that suffered damages from Super Typhoon Pongsona are reminded that they can call the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Helpline (1-800-621-3362 or for speech- or hearing- impaired TTY 1-800-462-7585) to update information or get more information on available assistance. The number is a available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
"The pressing need for accurate and immediate information about disaster assistance, or the status of an application for help, is vital to everyone who suffered losses from Super Typhoon Pongsona," said FEMA's Federal Coordinating Officer David Fukutomi. "Helpline operators may not be able to answer every question but they can refer the caller to other agencies or organizations that can."
The Helpline is also the number to call to register for disaster assistance. Specialists are available to answer questions for both those who have registered, or to take registration information from first-time callers.
Personnel at the Helpline number are trained and courteous specialists who will help find the information callers need without delay. It is an important resource for all applicants and can provide many services, including:
- Registering for disaster assistance;
- Checking the status of a FEMA application;
- Updating applicant information, including changes in income, telephone number and address;
- Referring special needs to other recovery agencies; and
- Providing information about the Disaster Recovery Centers locations.
Applicants can also visit the Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) at the Yigo Gym, the Inarajan Senior Center, or the University of Guam Field House. The DRCs are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Individuals and business owners who suffered losses or damages during Super Typhoon Pongsona are encouraged to first register by calling FEMA's toll-free number 1-800-621-3362 or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- and hearing- impaired. These numbers are in operation from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Guam time, daily until further notice. The deadline for applying for disaster assistance is February 18.
A local Helpline number for applicants who may need translators is available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guam time at 633-9820.
Last Modified: Friday, 14-Feb-2003 15:22:54