After initially being denied financial assistance following the April 4 tornadoes in the Metro area, Hinds County residents can now receive assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
This news pleased Gov. Haley Barbour, who originally cited Hinds County as a “major disaster area,” but FEMA thought otherwise. An appeal was made and FEMA assessed the area a second time, which has now brought about this favorable decision.
“I am grateful to FEMA for making a serious review and recognizing that sufficient damages did exist even though preliminary information didn’t make our case very well,” said Barbour.
Storm victims who do not have adequate insurance to repair their storm-damaged homes can apply for up to $28,000 in grants.
Congressman Bennie Thompson released this statement following the federal aid approval Wednesday:
“Today, the people of Jackson and Hinds County learned that federal aid is on the way. During the weeks since the severe storms and high winds of April 4th, I have worked wit ha coalition of local and state officials to help secure a federal disaster declaration. Now that the process of making funds available has begun, I look forward to these local communities being made whole again. The people of central Mississippi need assistance and this declaration will make that possible. In addition to Hinds County’s eligibility for individual and public assistance, all counties will be eligible for hazard mitigation.”
City and county governments will also be able to apply for up to 75 percent of the costs of debris removal.
“We are deeply grateful to Governor Barbour for recognizing the scope and severity of the loss that was caused throughout our community by last month’s storms, and for going the extra mile in persuading FEMA to reassess the damage in our area,” said Jackson Mayor Frank E. Melton in a press release from his office. “Without his efforts on our behalf, the task of cleaning up, repairing and rebuilding would have placed an inordinate burden on the taxpayers of Jackson.”
Storm victims needing assistance can call toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply or visit the disaster assistance center on Friday, May 30, at the Willie Morris Library, 4912 Old Canton Road, beginning at 10 a.m.
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