FEMA’s Pa. Public Assistance Nearly $17 Million

Pennsylvania state, county and local governments and certain non-profit organizations who suffered losses and damages as a result of flooding from Tropical Storm Ivan in September will receive nearly $17 million in public assistance funds, according to figures from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program is one way federal assistance flows to the state, county and local governments. It provides disaster grant assistance for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain private non-profit organizations.

While these grants are aimed at helping restore funds spent on emergency services, debris removal, and infrastructure restoration for these governments, the goal is to help a community and all its citizens recover from devastating natural disasters.

The Federal share of assistance is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost for emergency measures, debris removal and permanent restoration. The Commonwealth has agreed to pay the 25% non-Federal share.

Residents and business owners in the 58 counties who registered for assistance as a result of the September tropical storms can still call FEMA’s toll free Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to check on the status of their applications. The Helpline operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.