FEMA assistance extended for Kentuckians affected by April storms

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – FEMA has extended the eligibility period for Serious Needs Assistance for an additional 30 days for those who were impacted by the April severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Officials say applicants who register for FEMA assistance by June 23 may be considered for Serious Needs Assistance. Serious Needs Assistance is a one-time payment per household. Immediate or serious needs assistance may provide lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.

FEMA says people may be eligible for Serious Needs Assistance if:

• They can complete a FEMA application.
• FEMA can confirm their identity.
• The home where the person lives most of the year is in a declared disaster area.
• FEMA confirms the disaster damage from an inspection or documents the person sends.
• They tell FEMA they are displaced, need shelter or have other emergency costs due to the disaster on their application
• They apply for FEMA assistance while Serious Needs Assistance is available.

Officials note there are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

• Online
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close by, visit this website, or text “DRC” along with a zip code to 43362.
• Use the FEMA mobile app.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. It is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time. Help is available in many languages. If anyone uses a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.

Officials say disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and is not intended to compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.