"After reassessing the extensive storm damages throughout Southern California, federal and state officials have concluded that homeowners, renters and businesses in six additional counties are eligible for disaster aid," said David Fukutomi, FEMA's federal coordinating officer in a written statement.
"We welcome today's announcement by FEMA," said OES Director and State Coordinating Officer Henry Renteria. "It is great news for homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered losses during the December 27 through January 11 storms. We remain committed to working with FEMA to ensure that all qualified Californians receive the help they are eligible for under the law."
Residents can register for federal and state disaster aid through FEMA's toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). For the hearing or speech impaired the number is 1-800-462-7585 and operators are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Assistance includes grants, home repairs and other disaster related expenses not covered by insurance or other aid programs. Low interest loans, from the U.S. Small Business Administration, will be available for residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.
People in the new counties, who suffered damage in the storms, have 60 days to register with FEMA. For residents in all eight declared counties, including Los Angeles and Ventura, May 15, 2005 is the last day to register with FEMA.
OES coordinates state agency response to disasters in support of local government. The office is responsible for California's readiness to respond to and recover from emergencies and for assisting local governments in their emergency preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery efforts.
SBA is the federal government's source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster damaged private property. SBA helps homeowners, renters, businesses and private non-profit organizations fund repairs, rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster damaged personal property. These loans cover uninsured and uncompensated losses and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.
FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts. FEMA initiates improvement activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
