State and federal officials encourage those who suffered
losses and damages from the May 2 storms to call and register with the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). People
with hearing or speech impairments may call (TTY) 800-462-7585. The
toll-free registration numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday
through Saturday. Also, online registration is available at www.fema.gov.
Under the presidential declaration of May 20, the disaster-designated
counties of Benton, Cleburne, Conway, Crittenden, Grant, Lonoke,
Mississippi, Pulaski, Saline, and Van Buren are eligible for Individual
Assistance to help individuals and families cope with the losses and damages
from the May storms.
“It is important to call FEMA even though you may have called other agencies
or volunteer organizations in your area,” State Coordinating Officer Richard
Griffin of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) said.
“Keep clear records and receipts of any repairs and take photos if
possible.”
Applicants are advised to have the following information available to help
speed up the application process:
? Current phone number;
? Address at the time of the disaster and the address where they are
now staying;
? Social Security number, if available;
? A general list of damages and losses they suffered; and
? If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company
name.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration
(SBA) are available to homeowners, renters and businesses. Call the SBA at
1-800-659-2955 or visit the Web site at
www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
“Registration is the first important step in the recovery process,” Federal
Coordinating Officer Ken Riley said. Even if you have registered for
assistance with FEMA for other disasters, it’s important that you call and
register again for the May 2 incident.”
