Biden authorizes financial help for people in E. Ky. counties hit hardest by flooding

People in five Eastern Kentucky counties hit by massive flooding in recent days will be eligible for housing and other assistance under a declaration approved by President Joe Biden.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced in a news release late Saturday that Biden had approved individual disaster assistance for people in Breathitt, Clay, Knott, Letcher and Perry counties.

That assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs; low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses; and other programs to help people and businesses recover from the flooding.

FEMA said in a news release that residents and business owners with property damaged in the flood can begin applying for assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

For people who use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate seven days a week until further notice.

FEMA said homeowners and renters should have the following information ready when applying for assistance:

▪ A current phone number where you can be contacted.

▪ Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.

▪ Your Social Security number.

▪ A general list of damage and losses.

▪ Banking information if you choose direct deposit.

▪ If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners, renter’s or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Property owners and renters should also take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

The agency posted a video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw on how to apply for help.

FEMA said that as damage assessments continue, more counties and other forms of assistance might be authorized.

Biden had approved public assistance earlier. That provides money for government and non-profit agencies to use in recovering from flooding.

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