U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that individuals in Breathitt, Floyd, Magoffin, Owsley, and Pike counties that were impacted by the May 2009 severe storms and flooding have until July 27, 2009 to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in order to be considered for individual assistance.

“The damage from this storm was overwhelming and while much progress has been made, there are still many challenges to overcome as we move forward,” said Rogers. “FEMA assistance is crucial to our region’s recovery, so I encourage every citizen, even if they have received federal assistance in the past, to apply before the July 27th deadline.”

Individuals seeking reimbursement for disaster related expenses incurred as a result of the May storms and flooding should do so no later than Monday, July 27, 2009. Individuals can register by calling toll-free 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 or may register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. These resources can also be used to ask questions about or check the status of previously filed applications and to find out about appeals.

Rogers has worked closely with other members of the Kentucky delegation to bring awareness in Washington D.C. to the severity of the flooding and immediately called for a federal disaster declaration. To date, more than 4,800 Kentuckians have applied for disaster assistance. More than $15.6 million in disaster assistance has been approved, which includes more than $3 million in disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The deadline for disaster loan applications to SBA for disaster-related real and personal property losses is July 28. Information about SBA disaster loan programs is available by calling 800-659-2955, online at www.sba.gov or by e-mailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.