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Nearly $2 million in federal assistance has been approved to help Connecticut residents including individuals and families in Fairfield County with Hurricane Irene disaster expenses.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said Friday more than $1.96 million in federal assistance to date has been approved mostly for housing aid to help homeowners and renters. President Obama approved Malloy's Hurricane Irene Disaster Declaration several weeks ago.
The aid includes rent for temporary housing and to repair damage to a homeowner's primary residence that is not covered by insurance. The goal is to make the home safe, sanitary and functional; and, to help replace homes destroyed in the disaster, officials said.
"I am pleased that state residents are receiving much needed financial assistance after the effects of Tropical Storm Irene," said Malloy. "If you suffered damage from Tropical Storm Irene, you must register with FEMA to begin this disaster assistance process."
So far, 3,345 people have registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and FEMA-contracted inspectors have completed nearly 1,400 inspections.
More than $90,000 of the aid has been approved for disaster-related medical and dental costs; funeral and burial costs; clothing, household items, tools required for work and necessary educational materials. Financial aid also includes funding for disaster-damaged primary vehicles; storage expenses related to the disaster; and other necessary expenses or serious needs.
Individuals can register with FEMA online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech or hearing disability may call (TTY) 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are staffed seven days a week from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. until further notice. Help in most languages is available.
Registration for federal assistance can also be made directly through Web-enabled mobile devices or smartphones at m.fema.gov.
To reach Richard Weizel, email him at rweizel@mainstreetconnect.us.
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