Disaster Recovery Center to Close 

Release Date: May 7, 1999
Release Number: 1270-16

» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Flooding

ST LOUIS, Mo. -- The state/federal Disaster Recovery Center at the National Guard Armory in Fredericktown will close permanently at 6 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, state and federal officials have announced.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) opened the center so that victims of the early April severe storms and floods could meet one-on-one with disaster specialists to check the status of their application, to learn about a variety of federal, state and local disaster programs and to get information on how to prevent future damages from severe storms.

As of Friday, May 7, a total of 276 people had visited the center since it opened April 27.

"We're really happy that we've been able to help so many people by having this center available," said Carol Coleman, federal coordinating officer for FEMA. "A lot of folks got much-needed information and are moving ahead with their recovery."

SEMA Director Jerry Uhlmann said that victims can continue to access recovery information through the FEMA Helpline and through various state agencies.

"There are many state agencies that can continue to provide disaster victims with recovery information even after the center closes," Uhlmann added. "Closing the center doesn't close the door on help."

The FEMA Helpline can answer questions for applicants and provide an update on the status of their application. The number to call is 1-800-525-0321. The Helpline number for hearing- or speech-impaired is (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.

Anyone affected by the storms and floods who has not applied for disaster aid can still apply by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number 1-800-462-9029. The number for hearing- or speech-impaired is also (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.

Both the Helpline and registration numbers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Last Modified: Thursday, 18-Dec-2003 09:58:25