First Checks Approved For Disaster Victims 

Less Than One Week From Presidential Disaster Declaration

Release Date: November 14, 2003
Release Number: 1499-04

» More Information on Washington Severe Storms and Flooding

EVERETT, Wash. -- Qualified residents in counties declared eligible for federal and state disaster aid following the severe storms and flooding of mid-October are receiving disaster assistance checks now, less than one week after President Bush issued the major disaster declaration.

More than $236,000 in Disaster Housing Assistance has been delivered to applicants through November 14th.

On November 7, 2003, President Bush declared Chelan, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Mason, Okanogan, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston and Whatcom Counties a major disaster area. The presidential declaration paved the way for residents and business owners in these counties to apply for various disaster assistance programs.

Those who sustained damage to their residence or business because of the storms and flooding of October 15-23 should apply for disaster assistance by calling toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hearing or speech-impaired applicants may call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Hours to call are daily, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., local time, until further notice.

Disaster assistance can come in the form of funds to pay for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance; rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are unlivable; and funds to replace personal property and help to meet medical, dental, funeral, transportation and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

In addition to disaster housing assistance, homeowners, renters and non-agricultural businesses of all sizes may be eligible for low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

To date, 557 people in affected counties have registered for disaster assistance. State and federal disaster recovery officials stress that renters, as well as homeowners, can apply.

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: Friday, 14-Nov-2003 16:15:54