FEMA Centers Open in Monmouth for One-on-One Assistance

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has opened three Disaster Recovery Centers in Monmouth County to provide outlets for residents who need assistance.

The following centers are open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.:

• Belmar Municipal Building, 601 Main St., Belmar;
• Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center, 945 Route 36, Leonardo;
• Union Beach Municipal Building, 650 Poole Ave., Union Beach.

“These storms have caused significant damage throughout Monmouth County and we want to make sure those affected by the hurricane get the help for which they are eligible,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the county Office of Emergency Management.

“FEMA assistance can include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.”

The county advises residents to first register with FEMA by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov or calling 800-621-3362. Those with a speech disability or hearing loss should call 800-462-7586, and those who use 711 or Video Relay Service can call 800-621-3362.

Each Disaster Recovery Center is staffed with FEMA, Small Business Administration and state disaster recovery specialists who can speak one-on-one with those needing assistance following Hurricane Sandy.

“Do it now. Get into the FEMA system,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden, who oversees the county’s OEM. “I urge affected residents to go online or make that call; the sooner they register for assistance, the sooner assistance may become available."

Registering with FEMA is required for federal aid, even if the person has registered with another disaster relief organization such as the American Red Cross, local officials or churches.