Help Could Be Available for Uninsured West Losses

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Disaster help may be available for losses not covered by insurance in a Central Texas town recovering from a fertilizer plant explosion.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency on Monday urged survivors of the April 17 blast in West to check with FEMA after getting an insurance settlement.

A demolition crew knocks down part of a house destroyed by the April 17 fertilizer plant explosion. Norman Lenburg/FEMA

The explosion claimed 15 lives and left about 200 people hurt. Dozens of buildings were damaged or destroyed in West, about 70 miles south of Fort Worth.

FEMA cannot duplicate insurance coverage but agency officials say additional help may be available. Grants could help pay for temporary housing, home repairs, disaster-related medical and dental expenses and personal property and transportation costs.

An applicant must provide a copy of the insurance settlement letter or denial to seek additional government help.