PRESIDENT SIGNS FEDERAL DISASTER RECOVERY BILL
AID TO SOUTHEASTERN PA FLOOD VICTIMS ON ITS WAY

HARRISBURG, AUG. 6  -- State Sen. Connie Williams today received word that federal aid is on its way to families and businesses affected by the severe storm and flooding earlier this week.

“I have spent much of this week traveling through the district and have seen the devastation caused by flooding to homes, business, roadways and some of our historic structures,” Williams said. “The governor has done a great job of not only providing relief on a state level to begin helping flood victims, but has been successful in requesting federal aid and assistance for the region.

“With the addition of federal assistance, people need only make one phone call to start the process to obtain federal housing assistance and loans to address immediate needs for shelter, as well as long-term small business loans, which can be used by homeowners, renters and businesses, to rebuild.”

To start the process of obtaining federal grants or loans, homeowners and business owners should call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or for TTY 1-800-462-7585. This number connects the caller with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Representatives of FEMA will ask callers for basic information, which will then trigger a visit by FEMA to the individuals home or business. Turn-around time for on-site visits generally is about a week.

“This is the early information on what the federal declaration will mean,” Williams said. “There also is the possibility of FEMA opening disaster recovery centers, which would serve as a clearinghouse for people with questions or concerns. At the centers officials from the agencies needed to assist people with flood recovery on the state and federal level will be brought together.”

 “It is important for people to understand, however, that the one thing they need to do is to call the tele-registration number,” Williams said. “No other call or trip is necessary. People also should know that there is no one set dollar amount they can expect to receive in the form of a grant or loan. All awards and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. FEMA will visit your home or business to make that determination.”