FEMA is here to help

Story by Dan Hust
SULLIVAN COUNTY — FEMA’s in town, assessing the damage from Hurricane Sandy.
But since Sullivan County has already been declared eligible for individual assistance from the federal agency, residents can call to apply for help right this minute.
“It’s the first thing people have to do,” FEMA spokesperson Anne Waggoner said.
Once registered, FEMA will send out a resource packet in the mail. Though some of the application may appear to be aimed at businesses rather than individuals (i.e., loans through the Small Business Administration), Waggoner urged recipients not to throw any of it away.
“Fill out everything they ask you to,” she affirmed. “It doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan. It just keeps you in the system.”
She apologized in advance for paperwork that might add to an already laborious, stressful post-disaster experience.
“But the reason we’re here,” she added, “is to help.”
FEMA teams are already assessing property damage across the county, Waggoner said, with a primary goal to get people into safe and sanitary living conditions.
FEMA is also offering money for home and property repairs (for items existing insurance won’t cover). The individual limit is $30,000.
Still, cautioned Waggoner, “FEMA cannot take you back to where you were before the disaster.”

Applying for Aid
FEMA has set up offices at the following places. Hours are 9 a.m.–5 p.m. each day. More offices will be announced soon.
Friday, November 16
• Bethel Town Hall, Route 55 in White Lake.
• Charlie Barbuti Furniture, South Main St. in Liberty.
Saturday, November 17
• Bethel Town Hall, Route 55 in White Lake.
• Charlie Barbuti Furniture, South Main St. in Liberty.
Monday, November 19
• Thompson Town Hall, Route 42, Monticello.
People will still have to first register with FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).