Rogers: Federal Disaster Declaration Finally Approved

Press Release

Rogers: Federal Disaster Declaration Finally Approved

Today, U.S. Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) announced that President Obama has authorized a federal disaster declaration for 22 counties central and eastern Kentucky that were devastated by severe flash flooding, tornadoes, mudslides, high rains and water damage beginning on May 3, 2009 and continuing. This is in response to Governor Beshear's amended request of May 22, 2009.

"I applaud the President for declaring a federal disaster for central and eastern Kentucky which finally opens up the spigot for federal funds to our affected communities - we simply can't wait any longer," stated Rogers. "The damage from this storm was overwhelming and this declaration should usher in more temporary housing, rental assistance, and funds to our families to start rebuilding their homes and piecing together their lives. I want to recognize the countless volunteers, Red Cross, Christian Appalachian Project, WYMT, and others who have and continue to sacrifice their time and comfort to help our region respond and begin the recovery process. There are many challenges to overcome as we move forward, but this declaration is a step in the right direction."

The counties being declared a federal disaster area and designated for Public Assistance (available to state and local governments and certain non-profit organizations for repairs/emergency work) include Ballard, Breathitt, Carlisle, Clay, Crittenden, Floyd, Grayson, Hickman, Jackson, Knott, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Madison, Magoffin, Marshall, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Russell, and Trigg Counties. Breathitt, Pike, Owsley, and Floyd are also eligible for 100% Individual Assistance (available to individuals and households for certain storm-related services/repairs).

Individuals and local governments claiming a storm-related loss and seeking assistance from storm damages should contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at (800) 621-3362 or TTY (800) 462-7585 for persons with speech or hearing disabilities. Additional information about this disaster and required forms to apply for assistance are available at http://www.disasterassistance.gov/. In order to apply for individual assistance, an applicant should have on hand his/her social security number, current and pre-disaster address, telephone number to be contacted, insurance information, total household annual income, bank routing and account numbers, and a description of losses that were caused by the disaster. The disaster declaration number is FEMA-1841-DR.

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