News and Media: Disaster 4590

In the wake of a disaster, the people of Louisiana have always come together with compassion and courage to ask how they can help survivors. However, people often don't realize there is still a great need weeks or months after a disaster.

How to Help

BATON ROUGE, La. – If you are a Louisiana homeowner, renter or business owner who sustained property damage or loss caused by severe winter storms in February, you have two weeks left to register and apply for federal disaster assistance.

Residents who were temporarily forced from their homes because of utility failures should also register with FEMA. Reimbursement for hotel or other temporary rental expenses may be possible

BATON ROUGE, La. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application holds many benefits for disaster survivors who register for federal assistance. An applicant who is referred to the SBA during the initial FEMA registration process is expected to complete an application. If the person chooses not to apply, the federal funding process stops at that point. If they apply and are turned down for a low-interest disaster loan, this may open the door to an additional grant from FEMA.

FEMA and the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) caution disaster survivors to be aware of post-disaster fraud and scams. Attempts to scam residents can be made over the phone, by mail or email, through the internet or in person. It is important to remain alert. Con artists are creative and resourceful. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it should be questioned.