Va. Gov. Reports Federal Approval of Disaster Assistance for Several Counties

Virginia Gov. Mark Warner announced that President Bush has granted a major disaster declaration for Lee, Russell and Tazewell counties due to the flash flood, severe wind and tornado damage that occurred the week of May 24. The declaration will implement the Individual and Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs for those people affected by the storms.

“I appreciate this grant of federal disaster assistance,” Governor Warner said. “Many people had homes severely damaged and businesses were damaged or destroyed. The assistance programs available under this disaster declaration will play a key role in helping victims begin to repair and recover.”

The disaster declaration makes assistance available to support the recovery needs of affected residents and businesses. Housing assistance is available for people who have been forced from their homes due to disaster damage.

In addition, low interest loans are available for individuals and businesses to help cover uninsured losses. Grants for home repairs and other serious disaster-related needs may also be available. Also, the declaration approved the Hazard Mitigation Assistance program, which will help with damage reduction initiatives for future disasters.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management will be working cooperatively to deliver these disaster assistance programs.