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‘Over 3,000 households apply for help’
Over 3,000 households have already applied for assistance with Super Typhoon Yutu recovery, Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan reported yesterday.
Registration is the first step in obtaining money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency—and other federal and non-profit sources—for help rebuilding homes and businesses and replacing clothing, appliances, and automobiles lost in the storm.
“People understand the importance of getting registered,” Sablan said. “They have been very resourceful. Even people I talk to in the shelters, who have lost everything, have found a way to register for help.”
To register call 1-800-621-3362 or log on to www.disasterassistance.gov. Sablan is also helping people to register at the congressional office in Susupe.
“We know that many people do not have phone service or access to the internet and need a place to go.
“The FEMA congressional liaison, also let me know that FEMA has opened an office at the Department of Commerce on Tinian today, where people can come to register,” Sablan said.
Once registered, storm survivors will be contacted by an inspector from FEMA, who will look at their property and make a first-hand assessment of damage. The actual decision on how much assistance individuals will receive then comes by mail.
“The important first step is to get registered. Whether you think you qualify or not, get your name into the system,” said Sablan.
Applicants will be asked for a lot number or other physical description of where they live. A bank account number and routing number, which can be found on a check or bank statement, is also useful to have. The head of the household must provide their full name, social security number, and date of birth; but this information is not required for other family members.
“We have been asked if renters can qualify; and the answer is yes,” Sablan said. “We have been asked about families that have some U.S. citizens in the household. And, yes, they, too, can qualify. (PR)
