Today, Rep. Henry Cuellar announced that the Division of Emergency Management - Office of the Governor has scheduled an applicant briefing for Starr County governmental agencies and certain non-profit organizations whose buildings were affected by the recent storms that ravaged through the area. The briefing will be held on Tuesday, August 7, 2007, at the Starr County Courthouse at 10 am.

The briefing will assist applicants start the process and review important program information. The Public Assistance program makes federal funds available to repair damages and reimburse applicants for eligible costs associated with the disaster-related activities. 

“I have seen first hand the damage that these storms caused in Starr County, and I want to assure those affected that I will do everything in my ability to get them back on their feet as soon as possible,” said Congressman Cuellar.

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 governmental nature. These facilities must be open to the general public.

“As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response, I will make it a priority to ensure that funds make their way to Starr County and help as many agencies as possible,” Congressman Cuellar stated.

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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