Anyone With Damage Should Call
Many Kinds Of Storm Damage May Qualify For Assistance
Release Date: June 21, 2004
Release Number: 1520-040
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Every Indiana resident affected by the recent tornadoes and flooding should call to apply for assistance because many types of damage are eligible for assistance. If you’re a homeowner, renter or business owner and you have damage, simply pick up the phone and place a call to register, say state and federal disaster recovery officials.
Damages caused by flooding, power surges, lightening, a sewer backing up, sewer seepage, the tornado winds, hail, rain or wind driven rain may all be eligible and people should call to determine their eligibility.
“I want to clear up any confusion about who should call. ANYONE who has had damage could be eligible but there’s no way to know if they don’t apply. That’s the first step in finding out if you qualify for assistance,” stresses Justo “Tito” Hernandez, FEMA federal coordinating officer. “Don’t pre-judge your own eligibility because your damages were not severe or directly caused by a tornado or flood. Collateral damage may also be eligible.”
Those affected by the tornadoes and flooding can apply for assistance immediately by calling the FEMA toll-free application, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with speech or hearing impairment can call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open seven days a week, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time, until further notice.
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: Monday, 21-Jun-2004 17:00:22