TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- While many North Floridians recovering from the storm and flood damage of late March through early May are already getting help, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to operate a toll-free telephone Helpline.

Individuals are encouraged to call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 to register for assistance and to follow up on their applications.

The Helpline is open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Multilingual operators are available.

The April 21 Presidential disaster declaration covers 17 counties: Calhoun, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties.

Recovery officials from FEMA and Florida's State Emergency Response Team urge anyone, including those still waiting for insurance settlements or other documentation, to register as soon as possible.

Individuals can also register online at www.disasterassistance.gov.

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.