FEMA assistance available for flood and landslide victims August 18-19

All businesses that suffered losses from the Aug. 18-19 floods, landslides and mudslides in southwestern Connecticut can now apply for federal assistance through FEMA after President Joe Biden approved the funds on Friday.

Assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the disaster. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures, according to a FEMA news release.

Robert V. Fogel has been named federal coordinating officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Individuals and business owners who have suffered losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362 or using the FEMA app. If a person is using a relay service, such as a video relay service, closed captioned telephone service, or other, provide FEMA with the number for that service and they can initiate communication.

U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, who represents southwestern Connecticut, said he is also available to help those affected by the flooding by calling (203) 333-6600.