Help For California Fire Victims Only A Phone Call Away
Release Date: November 12, 2003
Release Number: 1498-20
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Pasadena, CA - Homeowners, renters, and business owners who sustained damage in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, Riverside, and Ventura counties as a result of firestorms in those areas can register for disaster assistance by telephone.
"It only takes about 15 minutes to begin the process of providing information needed to complete each application," said William Carwile of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), who is the Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster recovery effort.
The number to call is 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those who are speech or hearing impaired can call TTY 1-800-462-7585. FEMA representatives are available between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week, to take your call.
"Calling these numbers is the best way to apply for a wide range of state and federal disaster assistance programs," Carwile said. "These include funding for temporary disaster housing assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes to repair or replace homes, personal property, and business losses; awards to help meet serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs; and disaster unemployment assistance."
"All of us in FEMA and in the many disaster-relief organizations at the state and local levels are committed to delivering assistance wherever it's needed and to making sure that every qualified individual and family receives the help they need to get back on the road to recovery," Carwile said.
"Ensuring that everyone who has been affected by these devastating fires recovers as soon as possible is our top priority," added Dallas Jones, Director of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.
When you call, please have the following information available to help speed up the application process:
- Your current phone number
- Your Social Security Number
- A general list of damages and losses you suffered
- If insured, your insurance policy number, or the agent's and company name
- General financial information; and bank account code if you wish to speed up your assistance with direct deposit.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 12-Nov-2003 14:34:07