One Month Into Disaster Assistance To Texans Exceeds $38 Million
Release Date: August 1, 2002
Release Number: 1425-56
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San Antonio, TX -- Nearly storms and floods deluged a month after areas of south and central Texas, disaster aid for Texans affected by these floods nears the $38 million mark. More than 17,500 applications have been received from individuals, families and business owners who sustained disaster losses.
"It's important to register soon," said Scott Wells, federal coordinating officer, for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "A month has already passed since the declaration on July 4th."
During that time FEMA has already approved more than $14.6 million for nearly 10,000 applicants for disaster housing assistance that provides assistance for those who require temporary housing. The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved low interest disaster recovery loans for a total of nearly $16 million. The Texas Department of Human Services has approved more than 2,600 applications for disaster-related necessary expenses or serious needs for families unable to meet such expenses under other disaster assistance programs for a total of $7 million. To date nearly 1,000 applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance have been filed with nearly $5,000 disbursed.
"Make that one toll-free phone call and get into the system," urged Duke Mazurek, state coordinating officer for disaster recovery.
To start the application process call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY: 800-462-7585 for the hearing or speech impaired.
Eleven Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) are located throughout the declared counties to answer questions and give applicants help in completing SBA applications.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 13-Aug-2003 13:59:18