The state of Alaska and FEMA encourage residents to apply for disaster assistance

Individuals affected by the 2013 Spring Floods, that occurred during the period of May 17 to June 11, 2013, may now call or go online to register for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“Registering is an important first step on the path to a variety of recovery programs,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Dolph Diemont. “We are encouraging people to apply as soon as possible.”

“Registering with FEMA is essential, even if survivors have already registered with the State,” said State Coordinating Officer Bryan Fisher.

The major federal disaster, signed by President Obama on June 25, authorizes assistance to individuals and households in Alaska Gateway Regional Educational Attendance Area (REAA), Lower Yukon REAA, Yukon Flats REAA, and the Yukon-Koyukuk REAA.

Disaster survivors have several ways to apply.

• Individuals can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Disaster assistance applicants who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY should call 1-800-462-7585 directly. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) should call 1-800-621-3362.
• Another option is to register online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via web-enabled phone or tablet at m.fema.gov.

The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time), seven days a week.

Applicants registering for aid should be prepared to provide basic information about themselves (name, permanent address, and phone number), insurance coverage and any other information to help substantiate losses.

If you have questions about FEMA assistance, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). You can also visit www.disasterassistance.gov or www.fema.gov.

Please note: Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.