TYLER, Texas — FEMA has announced they are opening a disaster recovery center in Smith County on June 22.
Smith County Commissioners Court approved an agreement on June 18 with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to establish a disaster recovery center.
"(If you are) underinsured or uninsured, please reach out to us because you could be leaving money on the table. We also hear people say, ‘well I probably make too much money.’ The reality is income is not a determination factor when deciding if you apply for disaster assistance," said FEMA representative Nikki Gaskins Campbell.
It’s important to note that if you do receive money from FEMA – you do not have pay it back, however it must be used for disaster recovery.
"We want to see you back in your home so it’s safe, sanitary, and most importantly habitable. In addition to basic home repairs – if you’re a renter – for rental assistance," Campbell said. "Other things that may be eligible for our programs are dental, medical, childcare."
FEMA isn’t the only agency assisting. The U.S. Small Business Administration is in the recovery center as well to help businesses, private non-profits, and places of worship. U.S. Small Businesses Administration representative Susheel Kumar said homeowners and renters can also borrow money from this government agency at lower interest rates.
"Our application process is different. It is a loan, and it has to be repaid. Once we have a complete application, the funds are usually in your bank account – direct from the Treasury – in 30 days," Kumar said. "The program is not only for the uninsured, but the underinsured. You can use our money for mitigation also, you can use our money for debris removal and many other needs to help you get back on your feet."
During the regular meeting, the commissioners approved a memo of understanding with FEMA to establish a center at The Hub, located at 304 E Ferguson St. The center would be a place where residents impacted by severe storms can receive one-on-one assistance about storm recovery information and benefits.
The center will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
According to a FEMA press release, residents in Smith, Henderson and Van Zandt counties can visit the center and meet with representatives of FEMA with no appointment necessary.
“Recovery will take some time due to personnel constraints and the amount of debris accumulated,” Smith County Emergency Management Coordinator Brandon Moore said. “Citizens with damaged homes are encouraged to participate with FEMA personnel to apply for potential assistance.”
For more, visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call FEMA’s helpline: 800-621-3362.