WEST VIRGINIA FLOOD VICTIMS HAVE AID AVAILABLE:

Flood victims in disaster-declared counties reportedly do not need to be concerned that disasters in other states will mean a reduction in funds available for West Virginia. Applications filed for assistance in West Virginia will be evaluated based on their individual needs. Voluntary organizations, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the West Virginia Office of Emergency Services are providing a wide range of programs and services for victims of recent storms. “Don’t hesitate to apply for the assistance you may need,” said Louis Botta, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer. “The federal government has allocated sufficient funs for those in the affected areas who have eligible losses. There is enough help to go around for all who are eligible,” added Steve Kappa, state coordinating officer. “The amounts distributed to one individual will in no way affect what disaster assistance is available to your neighbor or other citizens of West Virginia.” FEMA disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not compensate individuals for their entire loss. If individuals have insurance, the government may help pay for the basic needs not covered under their insurance policy. Some disaster aid doesn’t have to be paid back, while other help may come in the form of loans. “SBA Area Director William Leggiero, Jr. said working capital loans are being offered in an effort to alleviate economic injury associated with the disaster and are available irregardless of whether the business sustained any physical damage from the storm. Leggiero said that flooded debris-choked roadways were likely to have caused a number of businesses to suffer a loss of revenue that normally would have been used to cover operating expenses and debt payments. Leggiero explained that small businesses and small agricultural cooperatives that experienced substantial economic injury resulting from the disaster, might be eligible for SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. Loans, which may go as high as $1.5 million at an interest rate of 2.9 percent, can be made for terms up to 30 years.