Today, U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) announced the addition of individual assistance for eligible residents in Bell, Knox and Perry Counties who were devastated by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred June 19-23, 2011. In July, the major disaster declaration (FEMA-4008-DR) triggered the release of federal funding for public assistance (PA) in Bell, Breathitt, Knott, Knox, Lee, Magoffin and Perry Counties.

The amendment to the major distaster declaration releases funding for individual assistance (IA) which can include temporary housing assistance for eligible families such as rental assistance and repair assistance. Individuals in the Bell, Knox and Perry Counties are encouraged to register with FEMA.

"Families in Southern and Eastern Kentucky were left with immense damage from the storms, losing their homes and nearly everything they owned,” said Rogers. “While the public assistance jump-started the recovery and rebuilding process in seven counties, this funding for individuals will bring the anticipated relief for families who desperately need financial assistance to move forward.”

All counties in the Commonwealth are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The program is available to state and local governments and certain private non-profit organizations for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.
Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the State and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

How to register for assistance:

Telephone: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY at 800-462-7585. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) can call 800-621-3362.

Internet: Individuals may apply for disaster assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. For smartphones or tablets, use m.fema.gov.
FEMA's App for android phones, can be downloaded at market.android.com/details?id=gov.fema.mobile.android

                                                        ###