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DRCs Open This Weekend for Imelda Recovery
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October 24, 2019

Disaster Recovery Centers Open Saturday and Sunday to Help Imelda Survivors


Two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) remain open in Harris County to help residents affected by Tropical Storm Imelda and will be open 7am-7pm on Saturday and Sunday. Recovery specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), local and state agencies will be at the centers to answer questions about disaster assistance and low-interest disaster loans. They can also help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance.


LOCATIONS

IT May Community Center
Seven days a week, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Harris County Social Services
Seven days a week, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.


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APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE
FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program is for homeowners and renters who may be eligible for grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not met by insurance or other assistance programs. Apply now for IA:

Low-interest disaster loans from SBA are also available to businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters to cover residential and business losses because of Imelda. Applicants can visit the DRC for one-on-one assistance, or contact SBA:
  • ONLINE: SBA.gov/disaster 
  • PHONE: 800-659-2955
    • Most applicants for SBA will need to apply for FEMA assistance with BEFORE applying with SBA. See instructions above. 


BRING WITH YOU
Residents who plan to register with FEMA or SBA at a DRC should have the following information:
  • Social Security number
  • Address of the damaged primary residence
  • Description of the damage
  • Information about insurance coverage
  • A current contact telephone number
  • An address where they can receive mail
  • Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds


APPEAL PROCESS
Applying for federal disaster assistance is a process with several steps and many times this involves receiving a rejection or denial letter. If you are denied, this does not mean you will not get assistance. Often, more information is needed. Remember, you may appeal ANY decision with FEMA.

You must start the appeal within 60 days of receiving your initial decision letter from FEMA. Be prepared to be involved in an appeal process. Appeal, follow up, call and engage with the system as much as possible to make your voice and your needs are heard.

Before you appeal:
  • Contact your insurance company to make sure you have accurate information on their assessment and any funds they have provided.
  • Maintain several copies of all of your important documents.
  • Request your file from FEMA to see what info they have related to your decision.

Learn more about the Appeal Process: https://www.disasterlegalaid.org/femaappeals/


ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
211 Texas/United Way Helpline, operated by United Way of Greater Houston, is committed to helping people connect with the services they may need for recovery.
  • CALL 2-1-1 or 877 541-7905
  • GO ONLINE to search the database at www.211texas.org
  • 211 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and help can be provided in 150 different languages.


Follow @ReadyHarris on social media for updates on recovery and additional recovery resources are available at www.ReadyHarris.org.


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