By David Ball
PORT NECHES — PORT NECHES — Some victims of Hurricane Ike may need help with flood damage, others with rebuilding and still others may be searching for a job.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has made things a little easier for those seeking assistance with the opening Thursday morning of the Disaster Recovery Center in the Wright Building, 1006 Port Neches Ave. Registrants have the opportunity to speak with federal agency representatives or apply for assistance.
“The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) can be used for registration, solve issues or file an appeal,” Bob Bennett, Southeast Texas area field office director for DHS FEMA, said. “This is the first center in Jefferson County and there will be many more to come. Individuals at the center may talk with case management and answer questions and provide information, benefits eligibility and additional services.”
Bennett said they have seen over 100 people since opening and they hope to increase that number as time goes by.
“We’re very popular. There will be lines at first. We ask that you be patient,” Bennett said. “Documentation is helpful — homeowners’ documentation, identification, Social Security number, utility bills, etc. If you’re renting, anything with your address on it.”
Inside the DRC, registrants may speak with legal services, the Texas Department of Insurance, flood mitigation assistance, Small Business Administration, SBA, and the Texas Workforce Commission. Bennett said other agencies will be added as they increase and more representatives will be added.
Information from the flood mitigation program provides information on construction methods that may result in less damages or more reparable damages. The SBA can help applicants with business programs available such as low interest loans and small business loans. Disaster unemployment assistance is for workers whose job site was destroyed and they may not be able to work. Benefits may be up to 26 weeks.
Lone Star Legal Aid offers free legal aid to low income Texans while The Texas Department of Insurance can help answer questions about all types of insurance, contact insurance companies, explain the insurance claims process and assist with problems or complaints about an insurance company, adjuster or agent.
