28 Jul 2009

FEMA community relations officers talk to OK citizens affected by wildfire
Post-wildfire disaster assistance increases again

Disaster assistance provided to those affected by Oklahoma wildfires now exceeds $2.9 million, state and federal emergency management officials announced today.

Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Small Business Administration officials also urge residents to apply for assistance before the August 18 deadline. FEMA toll-free registration lines, 800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 800-462-7585, are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Applicants also may register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

Recovery summary as of close of business July 27, 2009:

  • 260 individuals have registered for Individual Assistance in the disaster declared counties of Carter, Cleveland, Grady, Lincoln, McClain, Murray, Oklahoma, Payne and Stephens.
  • $1,590,000 in housing assistance grants has been approved for basic housing needs including emergency home repair and temporary housing.
  • $179,000 has been approved for other disaster-related assistance such as transportation, medical and dental expenses, moving and storage fees, and replacement or repair of personal property.
  • $1,140,000 in U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster assistance loans has been approved for homeowners, renters and business owners.

SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are open in Midwest City and Ratliff City to provide information on low-interest disaster loans and to assist residents and business owners with applications. The centers are located at Eastside Church of Christ, 916 Douglas Blvd. in Midwest City and at Ratliff City Baptist Church, 234 Church Street in Ratliff City. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday until further notice.