Enough Disaster Assistance For All 

Release Date: February 1, 2005
Release Number: 1573-014

» More Information on Indiana Severe Winter Storms and Flooding

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. --Victims in disaster-declared Indiana counties do not need to be concerned that their applications for assistance will reduce the amounts available for their neighbors.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and voluntary organizations are providing a wide range of programs and services for the severe winter storm and flooding victims.

“Don’t hesitate to apply for the assistance you may need,” Ron Sherman, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer, said. “The federal government has allocated sufficient funds for all those in the affected storm areas who have eligible losses.”

FEMA disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under your insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans. The FEMA representative will explain the details to you when you call.

“There is enough help to go around for all who are eligible,” Phil Roberts, SEMA’s state coordinating officer said. “The amounts distributed to one individual will in no way affect what disaster assistance is available to your neighbor or other citizens of Indiana.”

There are two easy ways to begin the application process. You may call to FEMA’s toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both numbers are available from 7 am to 7 pm, seven days a week until further notice, and multilingual operators are also available to answer your call. Residents with Internet access now have the option to register on the agency’s website at http://www.fema.gov where valuable recovery information is also available

“Don’t prejudge your eligibility,” Roberts said. “We don’t want to miss anyone affected by the severe winter storms and flooding who may need help to begin the recovery process. Tax dollars are set aside specifically for disaster assistance.”

Residents in the disaster declared area may be eligible for a wide variety of programs, such as funding for temporary disaster housing assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, replacement grants for serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs, and disaster unemployment assistance.

Also, the Hope Crisis Response Network (HCRN) now has a statewide toll-free number where people can call to get clean-up assistance. This number is 1-866-909- HOPE (4673). Residents in declared counties can also apply for food stamps by contacting their local Division of Family and Children Services. Those with other immediate needs may contact the toll-free Red Cross number at 1-866-GET-INFO or the Salvation Army at 1-800-589-1037.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and effectively manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 01-Feb-2005 10:37:52