For Immediate Release
OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY
April 25, 2003
Statement by the Press Secretary
The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State
of Florida and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local
recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and tornadoes on
March 27, 2003.
The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected
individuals in Miami-Dade County. Assistance can include grants for
temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured
property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business
owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-share basis for hazard
mitigation measures.
Representing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
Michael D. Brown, Undersecretary for Emergency Preparedness and
Response, Department of Homeland Security, named Justo Hernandez as the
Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the
affected area.
The Agency said that damage surveys are continuing in other areas,
and additional counties may be added for assistance after the
assessments are completed.
The Agency said that residents and business owners who sustained
losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance
tomorrow by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for
the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will
operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: FEMA (202) 646-4600
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