Individual assistance for flood victims
Saturday, January 31, 2009
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The White House issued a federal disaster declaration Friday for Snohomish County and other areas impacted by flooding that occurred between Jan. 6 and 16. Individual assistance for flood victims is now available and may include funding and support for residents suffering personal property damages. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials and state representatives recently toured Snohomish County with the Department of Emergency Management to inspect and confirm local damages now totaling about $18 million. "This is good news for people who suffered losses during recent flooding as it will allow them to make repairs and return to a sense of normalcy," Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon said. "We are very pleased the federal government has stepped up to assist the residents of Snohomish County, and we appreciate the effort and support of our Congressional delegation to obtain much needed assistance." More than 150 Snohomish County households have reported damages due to the severe storm and it has been estimated that as many as 500 homes were impacted in some way by flooding. John Pennington, Director of DEM said, "This disaster assistance comes following a successful and cooperative effort between the county and cities to keep people safe and property protected during the recent flooding." FEMA typically offers a variety of assistance to individuals following a disaster declaration. First Steps Disaster victims must first register with FEMA for assistance. The sooner residents register, the quicker they may see federal assistance. FEMA has set up a toll-free number (1-800-621-FEMA) so that individuals and households may begin to apply for assistance immediately. Residents also may register online at www.fema.gov. When registering, callers will be asked if they have insurance to cover their losses and if they need temporary housing. Individuals with insurance coverage will be referred to their insurance agent for further assistance. Those without may be eligible for one or all of the benefit programs. If you do not register, you will not receive any federal help. Whether applying online or by telephone, individuals should have a pen and paper and the following information ready: Upon completion of the process, residents will be given a FEMA application number. Please make a copy of this number for future reference. Many residents experiencing damage already may have made reports to either Snohomish Countys Department of Emergency Management (DEM) or within the city where they live. The FEMA process is in addition to this reporting. Once filing a FEMA application for assistance, Snohomish County DEM strongly suggests that individuals personally visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) for a face-to-face interview. Snohomish Countys first DRC will be located at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds at 14405 179th Ave SE, Monroe. It is expected to be open during regular business hours beginning Tuesday, Feb. 3. An additional location is expected near the city of Stanwood within one or two weeks. Residents are strongly encouraged to register with FEMA as soon as possible and visit a DRC following registration.