COLUMBUS - With the March 26 application deadline three weeks away, Ohio residents affected by January's severe storms and flooding have been approved for more than $2.1 million in disaster assistance to date, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA).

Applications are still being taken for disaster assistance that was made available with President Bush's disaster declaration of one month ago. For those who have already applied for assistance, $1,122,638 in grants and $989,500 in low-interest disaster loans have been approved

Disaster recovery officials urge anyone who suffered damage or loss in the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred between January 3 and January 30 to apply for assistance by calling the toll-free application number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The number for those with speech or hearing impairment is TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both phone lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, until further notice. The last day to apply for assistance is March 26.

The following is a one-month summary of assistance efforts as of close of business February 26:

• 783 individuals in 8 disaster-declared Ohio counties have applied for federal and state assistance (see page 2 for a breakdown of assistance by county)
• $896,313 approved in Housing Assistance grants for temporary rental assistance and minimal home repairs
• $226,325 approved in Other Needs Assistance grants for necessary expenses and serious needs caused by the disaster.
• $989,500 approved in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans, including
• 49 home loans ($888,700) and 4 business loans ($100,800)

Disaster Assistance Grants By County