ELIZABETHTOWN — Bladen County Sheriff Jim McVicker said on Friday that FEMA Iindividual Assistance housing inspectors are in the field around Bladen County to assess damaged homes as part of the registration process for applicants.
“These inspectors are fully credentialed and are working to expedite the IA process for disaster survivors,” McVicker said.
FEMA has a two-part program that includes help for individuals and housing, and for other needs assistance.
In the Housing Assistance Program they help provide:
— Temporary housing
— Lodging expenses reimbursement
— Repairs and replacement
— Permanent or semi-permanent housing construction
Under the Other Needs Assistance Program they provide:
— Medical and dental expenses
— Funeral expenses
— Personal property
— Transportation
— Other expenses or serious needs
To find out more about the program go to the FEMA website and the Individual Disaster Assistance section.
“We need for our citizens to be aware that after any natural disaster there are sadly individuals who will take advantage of the situation and try to cheat homeowners,” said McVicker. “Make sure you go to the FEMA website to get accurate information and check with your local government Emergency Management to find out where and when FEMA will be set up and take applications in person.”