NASHVILE, Tenn.— FEMA and the state of Tennessee are committed to providing disaster assistance to people with disabilities and access and functional needs. Assistance is also available for those who communicate in languages other than English.
All residents of Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties with property damage or other losses caused by the March 25-April 3 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding may apply for a grant from FEMA to help them pay for home repairs or other disaster-related expenses. Assistance can also be in the form of referrals to FEMA’s state and local partners.
The FEMA Helpline--800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) is the go-to resource for answers to questions about your application and any other FEMA-related questions. Those in need of disability access or a multilingual specialist can request accommodations with the Helpline specialists. Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time or 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, please update FEMA with the specific number assigned to that service.
FEMA can provide interpreters, real-time captioning, and information in alternate formats such as Braille, large-print, audio, and electronic versions. The agency also provides free services to help survivors communicate with its staff and understand FEMA programs. Among the aids are:
- Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website and social media.
- Qualified American Sign Language interpreters.
- Qualified multilingual interpreters.
- Information written in multiple languages.
FEMA wants to assure that everyone who is eligible has equal access to assistance. If you or someone you know needs support communicating with the agency, just ask.
For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.