FRANKFORT, Ky. — One month after devastating flash flooding caused catastrophic damage across Eastern Kentucky, the federal government has already paid more than 92-million dollars to flood victims.
Most of that money — more than $53 million — has been paid by FEMA to more than 6,500 individuals and households. That includes rental assistance for more than 3,800 people, and $10 million for other needs.
In addition, the Small Business Administration has approved more than $27 million in disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses, and the National Flood Insurance program has paid more than $11 million on 441 claims.
“Every disaster is unique, and with that comes a set of unique challenges,” Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker said. “FEMA’s willingness to be flexible within their regulations is appreciated and is necessary to continue to meet the need of Eastern Kentucky. Kentucky Emergency Management is committed to coordinating with all our local, state and federal partners to continue to meet the current needs, as well as initiating the recovery process.”
Those numbers are expected to continue to climb. FEMA continues to operate mobile registration centers, mobile Disaster Recovery Centers and six fixed recovery centers in six hard-hit counties. The mobile registration centers focus on helping people apply for federal assistance, while the mobile and fixed recovery centers can provide face to face assistance from FEMA, the Commonwealth and SBA. These centers have served more than 7,000 disaster survivors and continue to operate to assist those who need face-to-face help.
More than 800 federal personnel from around the country are on the ground in Kentucky helping with flood recovery.
“Our FEMA team members have come from around the country to assist Kentuckians in their time of need,” said Federal Coordinating Officer of Kentucky recovery Brett Howard. “Having such a diverse group of people allows us to innovate and find new ways to overcome the challenges of disaster recovery.”
The deadline for flood survivors to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Sept. 28.
