The state announced today that more than $1.9 million in federal aid has been approved so far to help those affected by Tropical Storm Irene.
According to a press release issued by the governor’s office, 3,345 residents have registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and 1,390 inspections have been completed. The vast majority of the aid approved ($1.87 million) has been to help victims rent temporary housing, repair damage to their homes not covered by insurance and replace homes destroyed by the storm.
Federal Other Needs Assistance (ONA) grants are limited to covering costs not covered by insurance or other sources. Approved ONA grants totaling nearly $92,000 will help pay for, according to the release:
- Disaster-related medical and dental costs
- Disaster-related funeral and burial costs
- Clothing, household items and tools required for work and necessary educational materials
- Clean-up items
- Disaster-damaged primary vehicles
- Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
- Other necessary expenses or serious needs as determined by FEMA
Residents affected by Irene can register with FEMA online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by telephone at 800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with speech or hearing disabilities can call (TTY) 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are staffed seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. until further notice, and help in most languages is available.
Registrations can also be made through Web-enabled smartphones or other mobile devices at m.fema.gov. Residents who have already provided damage information to their towns, the state, FEMA or through the 2-1-1 call-in number must still register with FEMA.
