FEMA works to jump start flood recovery efforts in eastern Kentucky

KENTUCKY (FOX 56) — FEMA is on the ground in eastern Kentucky, helping survivors recover from the devastating floods that tore through the region in February.

Applications are being processed daily in Knott County and the surrounding area to help jumpstart the recovery process for those heavily impacted by the floods.

FEMA specialists are set up at centers across seven counties, meeting face-to-face with survivors.

“Something that may seem small to your neighbor is drastically different to your other neighbor,” said Craig Browning, a FEMA spokesperson. “So that’s why whenever we have these presidentially declared events, we approach it as though it’s your worst day.

Browning said representatives are walking people step by step through the application process and answering any questions they may have along the way.

However, he encourages people to be proactive about documenting damage, even before turning to FEMA for help.

“Take pictures,” said Browning. “Get out the trusty pen and pad and document. Save any receipts for items that you purchased to help with your clean in your recovery.”

Even if you receive a message that you are ineligible for FEMA assistance at first:

“Don’t stop reading there,” said Browning. “Read all the way to the bottom. Nine times out of 10, it’s something simple. We need that insurance determination letter. Right? Because we can’t duplicate benefits. Maybe we just need a photocopy of a driver’s license. Or know proof of ownership, proof you even own the property.”

So far, FEMA has approved more than $9 million in housing and other types of assistance, helping more than 1,200 Kentucky households.

“We need to hear your story. We want to know how this impacts your specific family. And also, to get you on that road to recovery.”

Browning said the disaster recovery centers will be open as long as there is a need.