Today, United States Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that Atascosa County has been added to the Federal Disaster Declaration as a result of the severe thunderstorms that have recently swept through the area. Individuals and public entities affected by the ravaging waters are now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance though the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 

To apply for assistance, individuals should register by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or going online at www.fema.gov. Whether applying online or by telephone, residents must have their social security number, current and pre-disaster addresses, a contact phone number, insurance information, total household annual income, a description of losses caused by the disaster, as well as a bank routing and account number ready if they prefer to have disaster assistance funds transferred directly into their bank account.

“I applaud the addition of Atascosa County to the disaster declaration,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I have seen first hand the damage that these thunderstorms caused in this county, and I want to assure the residents who were affected by these storms that I will do everything in my ability to get them back on their feet as soon as possible.”

As part of the disaster declaration, FEMA-1709-DR, residents and public entities affected by the heavy rains and flooding will be able to apply for aid under the Individuals and Households Program (IHP) and Public Assistance (PA) program. The IHP provides assistance or direct services to individuals affected by the disaster who have necessary expenses and are unable to meet their needs through other financial means. According to FEMA, up to $28,200 is available in financial assistance, although some forms of IHP are limited and the amount may be adjusted each year. IHP assistance includes temporary housing, repair, replacement, semi-permanent or permanent housing construction, and other needs, including personal property and other items.

The PA program makes federal funds available to repair damages and reimburse applicants for eligible costs associated with the disaster-related activities.  Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments or governmental entities, special utility districts, certain private non-profit organizations (PNP), and Indian Tribal organizations.  Eligible PNP organizations must own or operate educational, utility, irrigation, emergency, medical, custodial care, or essential governmental services facilities. 

Governmental service facilities include museums, zoos, community centers, libraries, homeless shelters, senior citizen centers, rehabilitation facilities, shelter workshops, and other facilities which provide health and safety services of a governmental nature. These facilities must be open to the general public.

As soon as possible after the declaration, the state of Texas, assisted by FEMA, will conduct the applicant briefings for state, local, and (PNP) organizations to inform them about the public assistance available and how to apply for it.

“As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response, I understand the critical need for funds to make their way to Atascosa County,” Congressman Cuellar stated.

Congressman Cuellar also thanks local city and county officials for working diligently to ensure that Atascosa County received the attention it deserves.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip.
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