FEMA Funds Disaster Repairs At Calhoun High School

Release Date: July 29, 2004 Release number: R6-04-093b

DENTON, Texas -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today it has obligated more than $1.3 million to the state of Texas to fund disaster repairs at Calhoun High School in Port Lavaca, Texas. Hurricane Claudette’s high winds and rain caused heavy roof damages to the school in July 2003, leading to substantial interior damage.

“Returning schools to pre-disaster condition is a critical part of our disaster recovery role,” said FEMA Regional Director Ron Castleman. “We encourage families, businesses, schools and communities to prepare now for the next storm.”

FEMA provides 75 percent of eligible project costs and the remaining 25 percent comes from local resources.

The federal funds are made available under the FEMA Public Assistance Program. The state of Texas administers the program under which eligible disaster-related costs are reimbursed to government units and certain non-profit organizations providing essential government-like services in the areas of emergency protective measures, debris removal and restoration of public facilities.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.