Washington, DC - Today, the President declared parts of the State of Delaware a major disaster area as a result of Tropical Storm Henri that struck New Castle County on September 15, 2003. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in New Castle County. This declaration by the White House is the result of a disaster request by Governor Ruth Ann Minner. The congressional delegation also wrote a letter to President Bush stressing the urgent need to grant this disaster request. Senators Biden and Carper and Congressman Castle have pledged to do whatever they can on a federal level to help the flood victims, especially those from the Glenville community who lost everything, including their homes. "This is a first step, but a much-welcomed and necessary one," said Senator Biden. "In just a few hours time, the folks in these communities lost everything. Since then, every minute of the day, they've been dealing with the aftermath. Hopefully, we can get them some relief quickly so they can begin to put their lives back together. " "Today, I spoke with Michael Brown, the acting head of FEMA, as well as Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge about the flood damage in Glenville, including the desire of some residents' for possible federal buyouts to avoid future flooding problems in the area. Both Under Secretary Brown and Secretary Ridge assured me that they would be in touch with my office and the delegation soon on this urgent matter," said Senator Carper. "I am pleased we were able to obtain federal funding for Delaware as a result of Tropical Storm Henri. I recently toured the area of Glenville, and it is evident area residents are suffering from countless challenges due to flooding, most of them left homeless," said Congressman Mike Castle. "It is my hope federal aid may ease the burden on this community and other residential areas and businesses that are suffering as a result of the storm. The delegation will continue to work with the state and local communities who work together to identify problem areas and ensure they are receiving the aid they need."