Ike: Disaster Assistance Deadline Extended

[editor]

AUSTIN, Texas - At the request of the State of Texas, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has extended the deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered damages from Hurricane Ike to register for state and federal disaster assistance. The new deadline is Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009.

"We don't want to miss anyone who may be eligible for aid," said Federal Coordinating Officer Stephen M. De Blasio Sr. "We encourage anyone who was affected by Ike to register with FEMA as soon as possible."

Assistance to individuals could include grants to help pay for temporary housing needs, essential home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also available for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations to repair or replace real or personal property.

"This extension gives everyone more time," said State Coordinating Officer Joan Haun. "Make that call or go on the FEMA web site and register. Just get in the FEMA system, so we can see how we can help you."

Texans who had damage or uninsured losses and have not yet registered can do so online at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), (TTY) 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- and hearing-impaired. Both numbers are available 24 hours, seven days a week until further notice.

Several FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers remain open for face to face assistance. A complete list of centers is available at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/pages/dr1791_drc_list.htm.