WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) release the following statement:

“I am pleased to announce that the President has declared a federal disaster for Bolivar, Warren, Washington, and Wilkinson Counties.  This assistance is much-needed and will enable families and farmers impacted by the recent round of storms and flooding along the Mississippi River.

“Communities included in this declaration will be eligible for housing assistance, including aid for temporary housing, repairs and replacements.  The Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial help or direct services to those who have necessary expenses and serious needs if they are unable to meet the needs through other means.  I encourage local community leaders and elected officials to make full use of these resources.”

Background:

Temporary Housing:  Money to rent a different place to live or a temporary housing unit (when rental properties are not available).

Repair:  Money for homeowners to repair damage from the disaster that is not covered by insurance. The goal is to repair the home to a safe and sanitary living or functioning condition.  FEMA may provide up to $28,800 for home repair; then the homeowner may apply for a Small Business Administration disaster loan for additional repair assistance.  FEMA will not pay to return a home to its condition before the disaster. Flood insurance may be required if the home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area.  Repair and replacement items include:

§         Structural parts of a home (foundation, outside walls, roof)

§         Windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinetry

§         Septic or sewage system

§         Well or other water system

§         Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system

§         Utilities (electrical, plumbing, and gas systems)

§         Entrance and exit ways from the home, including privately owned access roads

§         Blocking, leveling and anchoring of a mobile home and reconnecting or resetting its sewer, water, electrical and fuel lines and tanks

Replacement:  Money to replace a disaster-damaged home, under rare conditions, if this can be done with limited funds.  FEMA may provide up to $28,800 for home replacement.  If the home is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, the homeowner must comply with flood insurance purchase requirements and local flood codes and requirements.

Semi-Permanent or Permanent Housing Construction:  Direct assistance or money for the construction of a home. This type of assistance occurs only in very unusual situations, in locations specified by FEMA, where no other type of housing assistance is possible.  Construction shall follow current minimal local building codes and standards where they exist, or minimal acceptable construction industry standards in the area.  Construction will aim toward average quality, size, and capacity, taking into consideration the needs of the occupant.  If the home is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, the homeowner must comply with flood insurance purchase requirements and local flood codes and requirements.

All counties in the State of Mississippi are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

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