“FEMA and GEMHSA work together all year round in preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation,” said Robert Porreca, a FEMA spokesperson.
According to Porreca, officials are reminding Georgia Hurricane Matthew survivors that improperly using the money could be a violation of the declaration survivors sign to receive the grants and could result in denial of future assistance.
Once approved for disaster grants, those who apply and are approved for disaster assistance receive FEMA aid by way of a check or direct deposit to their checking account. The money is accompanied by a letter from FEMA about the grant and how it can be spent.
“Before receiving their grants, they must sign a declaration and a release certifying that all funds will be spent on the expenses for which they are intended,” Porreca said.
The grants cover repairs, temporary housing and other approved essential disaster- related costs.
There is a good chance however, that funds could be deposited before the letters are delivered to recipients.
Disaster Recovery officials are available to help grant recipients understand how the grant works. Anybody who has questions can call FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362.
Housing funds can be used for applicants who have a continuing need for temporary rental assistance. Those who need additional money have to turn in a valid lease and utility receipts to receive additional assistance.
Money can also be used for essential, personal property, specialized tools for employment, household items, appliances and vehicle repair or replacement.
Disaster-related medical, dental, moving and child-care expenses are also covered.
Applicants must update their personal information including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have the correct contact information, disaster survivors may miss letters or phone calls about their application for assistance or payment status, officials said.
According to Porreca, FEMA grants cannot duplicate payments from other sources. For example, if a grant recipient receives an insurance settlement covering expenses already paid for by FEMA, those duplicated funds must be returned to FEMA.
Matthew survivors have until Dec. 16 to register with FEMA for storm-related damage in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh and Wayne counties. Damage must have occurred Oct. 4-15.
For more information, please call the help line number listed above. Individuals that are hearing impaired can call TTY 800-462-7585 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages.
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