President Obama signed a disaster declaration for New Jersey last week, which may entitle residents and small businesses to federal relief in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene, according to a statement from Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-11th Dist.)
The congressman said individuals should call 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362) or visit:
or
www.fema.gov/assistance/process/assistance.shtm
Owners of small businesses should try the Small Business Administration’s website at:
The congressman said federal programs include:
- Rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are unlivable.
- Grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance.
- Grants to replace personal property and to help meet medical, dental, funeral, transportation and other serious disaster- related needs not covered by insurance.
- Unemployment payments for temporary job losses caused by the storm.
- Low-interest loans to cover residential losses not fully compensated by insurance.
- Loans up to $2 million for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations impacted by the storm.
- Loans up to $500,000 for farmers, ranchers and aquaculture operators to cover production and property losses, excluding primary residence.