Disaster Application Deadline Nears

Release Date: January 24, 2003 Release Number: 1447-07

» Super Typhoon Pongsona

Dededo, Guam -- Monday, February 24 is the last day FEMA will accept disaster assistance applications from residents and business owners in Rota who sustained damage from Typhoon Pongsona.

"We want people on Rota to understand that this is merely an application deadline," said Bill Carwile, federal coordinating officer. "For people who have already applied, their cases will continue to be processed, but we will not be accepting any new applications after February 24."

Federal and local disaster recovery officials urge those who have not done so to apply as soon as possible by calling the toll-free registration line at 1-800-621-3362. Hearing- or speech-impaired individuals may call the TTY registration number at 1-800-462-7585. Those who speak Chamorro, Chuukese, Tagalog, Cantonese, and Spanish as their first language can call 1-866-550-4211. If you have already applied and still have questions you can call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

To date, 677 people have applied for disaster assistance. More than $2.6M has been approved for individuals impacted by the disaster. The U.S. Small Business Administration has also approved more than $1.1M in low-interest disaster loans. February 24 is also the last day to apply for SBA disaster loans.

The hours for the FEMA teleregistration line and Helpline (1-800-621-3362) and the language helpline (1-866-550-4211) are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.