Posted at 1:31 p.m., Monday, October 23, 2006
FEMA now has aid for Big Island homes, businesses
Advertiser Staff
HILO, Hawai`i — The Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide federal recovery assistance to Big Island households and businesses that suffered damage in the Oct. 15 earthquake, Gov Linda Lingle announced today.FEMA's decision supplements a disaster declaration for the state that was signed by President George W. Bush on Oct. 17.
FEMA will coordinate the individual assistance, which can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.
Low-interest loans will be available from the U.S. Small Business Administration to cover residential and business losses not fully covered by insurance.
Lingle said one of the main concerns she encountered when touring North Kohala last week was whether residents would be eligible for receive federal assistance to repair their homes and businesses.
"We appreciate the approval by FEMA to assist Big Island residents as they continue to recover from last Sunday's earthquake," Lingle said in a statement released today. "While no amount of assistance can cover the loss of personal sentimental items, the announcement by FEMA today will help bring some peace of mind to many residents."
FEMA and State Civil Defense will announce details on how Big Island residents and business owners can apply for assistance.
