Federal Aid Tops $375M for Cook County Flood Victims
Cook County residents affected by severe storms and flooding between June 29 and July 2 have received over $375 million in federal assistance, including grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA). The aid package aims to support homeowners, renters, and businesses in their recovery efforts.
FEMA grants have played a significant role, with over $280 million awarded in Individual and Households grants. These grants cover a range of expenses, including rental assistance, repair and replacement funds, and other needs such as childcare and storage payments. For those facing more extensive damage that exceeds the scope of FEMA grants, the SBA has provided over $88.3 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners. An additional $8.2 million has been granted to businesses to help them recover and rebuild.
While the application period for assistance has ended, FEMA advises survivors who have already applied to keep in touch and update their contact information if necessary. This will ensure they receive any important telephone calls or correspondence. It’s important to note that calls from FEMA may appear as unidentified numbers, so applicants should better answer the phone, as the agency may require additional information for their application.
When FEMA specialists contact applicants, they will provide their FEMA registration number, telephone number, and the address of the damaged property to verify their identity. It’s worth mentioning that they will never ask for money, as applying for FEMA assistance is completely free. Maintaining accurate contact information is crucial for effective communication with FEMA during the recovery process.
To prevent potential scams, FEMA recommends verifying the authenticity of callers by contacting the FEMA Helpline directly at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use relay services should ensure FEMA has their correct contact details for that specific service.
The federal aid provided to Cook County flood victims marks a significant investment in their recovery and rebuilding efforts. While the road to full recovery may still be underway, the financial support offered by FEMA grants and SBA loans has proven crucial in assisting individuals, families, and businesses impacted by the severe storms and flooding. With these resources in hand, affected residents can begin the process of rebuilding their lives and communities.
