View this article online: https://www.claimsjournal.com/news/southcentral/2005/10/21/61230.htm
Residents of Louisiana who suffered damages and losses as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and/or Rita are reminded they must register for disaster assistance for each storm. Registering for aid for Hurricane Rita is separate from any past registration for Hurricane Katrina.
Hurricane disaster victims are encouraged to apply for assistance immediately by calling FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). People with a speech- or hearing- impairment can call (TTY)1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice. Online registration is also available at www.fema.gov.
Registration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is the necessary first step in the recovery process. Eligible residents affected by the hurricane disasters can receive federal help only after they have registered with FEMA either through the teleregistration line or via the Web site. The sooner people call, the sooner they can get help.
People without telephone or Internet can access those services for FEMA registration at one of the Disaster Recovery Centers located around the state. At the centers, applicants can meet face-to-face with representatives of state, federal and voluntary agencies. Customer service representatives from the SBA are also there to answer questions and provide recovery information. In addition, written materials about various assistance programs are available for individuals and business owners.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Louisiana continue to bring aid to disaster survivors and to determine assistance eligibility for individuals and families affected by Hurricane Rita.