Special to The Leader

 

AUSTIN, Texas – Residents in Jasper, Newton and Orange counties may see FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams in their communities, offering a personal link to the resources for recovery.

Using the latest mobile technology, DSA team members can help survivors register for disaster assistance, update information on applications, assist with determining ongoing needs, and make referrals to whole community partners.

The DSA teams are there in partnership with the Texas Division of Emergency Management and local officials. DSA team members wear FEMA attire and carry FEMA photo IDs. If the photo ID is not displayed, ask to see it.

They may request the following information:

• Social Security number
• Address of the damaged primary residence
• Description of the damage
• Information about insurance coverage
• A current contact telephone number
• An address where they can receive mail
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

FEMA officials will be in the counties to meet with residents who suffered damage from the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that began March 7. Residents in these counties do not have to wait until they meet with a DSA team member to register for FEMA assistance.

Registering for assistance with FEMA is an important first step toward recovering. Survivors can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585.

Applicants who use 711 or Video Relay Service may call 800-621-3362. The toll-free numbers are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Reasonable accommodations, including assistive technologies, may also be available by calling the FEMA Helpline, or by making a request with a DSA team member.

Disaster assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.