FEMA Assistance Totals $2M So Far

Monday, April 9, 2012 at 7:29 AM

Destruction caused by a tornado in Holton on March 2.

file photo

(Holton, Ind.) - More than $2 million has been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for southern Indiana victims of the March 2 tornadoes.

President Barack Obama approved Governor Mitch Daniels’ request for a major disaster declaration in Clark, Jefferson, Ripley, Scott, Warrick and Washington counties just days after the storms destroyed several communities, including Holton in Ripley County.

FEMA Individual Assistance helping uninsured homeowners and renters with rebuilding and repairs totals $1.7 million as of the close of business Thursday. Such expenses include temporary rental assistance, repair and replacement of essential household items, and disaster-related medical, dental or funeral costs.

A total of 1,339 registrations have been received by FEMA. Field inspectors have done 533 inspections within 36 hours of registration.

The Small Business Administration says $990,800 in low interest disaster loans has been approved so far. Another 813 home loan applications and 171 business loan applications are still pending.

Storm victims can still register for FEMA’s individual assistance through May 8. Call (800) 621-FEMA from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week, or visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov.