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Tuesday, July 15, 2008, C-T

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has expanded federal disaster assistance programs to 10 additional Missouri counties, including Livingston, Gentry and Linn. Individual assistance (IA) was made available to the residents and businesses of Gentry, Linn and Livingston counties. Public assistance — aid to state and local governments and certain nonprofits — was made available to Livingston as well as the counties of Grundy, Daviess, Mercer, Gentry, Bates, Harrison, Polk and Webster.

These counties are now included in the June 25 presidential disaster declaration following the severe storms and flooding that began June 1. Homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofits of Gentry, Linn and Livingston counties who suffered damages should register immediately to be considered for assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The addition of three IA counties brings to 10 the total of Missouri counties receiving IA. Public assistance funding is available to state and local governments and certain private non-profit organizations. FEMA will pay a share of the costs for debris removal and emergency protective measures (such as police, fire and medical), as well as permanent work that includes road and bridge repair, and repair and restoration of public buildings, utilities and recreational facilities.

The addition of nine PA counties brings to 31 the total of Missouri counties receiving some form of PA, in addition to the independent city of St. Louis. FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or manmade, including acts of terror.