Disaster Assistance Deadline Extended For Private Nonprofits 

Release Date: December 23, 2003
Release Number: 1499-42

» More Information on Washington Severe Storms and Flooding

EVERETT, Wash. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by the floods of October 15-23 have until January 6 to apply for assistance through federal and state programs.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program recognizes certain PNPs as eligible for disaster funding. Public Assistance has been declared for PNPs and local jurisdictions in seven Washington counties: Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Mason, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom.

To find out whether a PNP is eligible for disaster assistance and to begin the application process, PNPs should call FEMA’s teleregistration number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number for the speech- or hearing-impaired is 1-800-462-7585. Calls are received between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“We urge nonprofits affected by the October flooding to start the application process right away,” said Diane Offord, state coordinating officer for the disaster. “Remember, you cannot receive help if you do not apply.”

“FEMA and the State of Washington are committed to helping all eligible applicants,” said Anthony Russell, federal coordinating officer. “We have extended the deadline to January 6 for private nonprofits because we believe some eligible organizations have not yet registered for assistance.”

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is the federal government's primary source of money for the long term rebuilding of disaster damaged private property. SBA helps homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, nonprofit organizations fund repairs or rebuilding efforts, and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover uninsured or uncompensated losses and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

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 the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 24-Dec-2003 08:22:10