Misunderstandings May Cause Some To Miss Out On Gaston Disaster Aid
Release Date: September 21, 2004
Release Number: 1544-023
RICHMOND, Va. -- In the turmoil that accompanies the shock and loss of a disaster, misleading rumors, half-truths and misunderstandings about available assistance may cause some storm-struck residents to disqualify themselves from much-needed help.
Disaster recovery officials voiced concern that unreliable word-of-mouth in distressed neighborhoods and communities may deprive eligible individuals and households of vital aid from state and federal sources.
"The last thing you need in a disaster is misinformation," Marianne C. Jackson, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) federal coordinating officer, said. "And the best way to avoid that problem is for you to call and ask just what kind of assistance is available to you."
President Bush recently signed a major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of Virginia. The declaration triggered assistance to homeowners, renters and business owners in the independent cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg and Richmond, and the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Hanover, Henrico, King William, New Kent and Prince George.
Homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered damage and loss as a result of the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that resulted from Tropical Depression Gaston can apply for assistance immediately by calling 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA). Those with a speech or hearing impairment can call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
Jackson clarified some of the most common misconceptions about disaster assistance:
- I have insurance, so there is no other help available. Not True: FEMA will not duplicate insurance benefits, but you may be eligible for help with losses not covered. That's why it's important to register for assistance even while you are working with your insurance company to assess your insurance coverage.
- I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance. Not True: Don't wait for an adjuster before applying for aid or making repairs needed to make your house livable. However, you should find out what your policy covers and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work.
- I already repaired my home. I don't need to apply. Not True: You might qualify for reimbursement of expenses not covered by insurance.
- I got help from the Red Cross, so now I can't get help from FEMA or the state. Not True: FEMA and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) coordinate a number of programs to help disaster victims. These programs are different from the emergency food, clothing and shelter initially provided by the Red Cross and other voluntary agencies.
- I got help from the Red Cross, so I'm already registered with FEMA. Not True: Registration with the Red Cross is not the same as registration with FEMA. For federal and state disaster assistance, you must first apply by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.
- I have to be poor to qualify for disaster aid. Not True: The kinds of help provided depend on each applicant's circumstances. Federal and state disaster assistance programs may be available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income. The programs are not "welfare."
- I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan. Not True: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which handles low-interest disaster loans, has its own criteria for determining each loan applicant's eligibility. The SBA will decide whether or not you are able to repay a loan. If you are not qualified for a loan, you may be eligible for a grant, but it is necessary to go through the SBA application process first and that process is prompted by registration with FEMA.
- I must own a business to apply for a loan from the SBA. Not True: Based on the type and extent of "uninsured" or "underinsured" disaster-related losses and damages, individuals may be eligible for low-interest loans for home or personal property losses.
- I rent an apartment. I can't get help. Not True: There are several types of assistance available to renters. One type of grant may help a renter with temporary housing needs if they have to move because of disaster damage or loss. Another type of grant may be available to an eligible individual or family with serious, disaster-related needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance or other disaster assistance programs. Also, a renter may qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan.
- I'm self-employed and out of work. I can't qualify for disaster unemployment benefits. Not True: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA), funded by FEMA and administered by the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC), provides benefits for workers who would not normally qualify for unemployment compensation, including farmers, farm workers and those who are self-employed. Anyone interested in filing for disaster unemployment assistance should visit the nearest state or county unemployment office. Emergency unemployment claims for Gaston must be filed by Oct. 6, 2004.
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: Tuesday, 21-Sep-2004 10:11:15