Peoria County Approved for Federal Assistance Following September Flooding

November 18, 2008 at 4:50PM (updated on November 18, 2008 at 5:04PM)

Residents and business owners in Peoria County who suffered damage to their homes or businesses when severe flooding struck the area in mid-September are now eligible to apply for federal assistance. Last week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved a request submitted by the State of Illinois for federal assistance.
 
People affected by the flooding must register with FEMA by December 2, 2008 to be considered for assistance. Registration can be completed by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for hearing and speech impaired. Registration may also be completed online at www.fema.gov.
 
The federal disaster declaration will make assistance available to individuals and households, including cash grants to help with temporary housing, home repairs and replacement, and other related costs. Flood victims and businesses will also be able to apply for low-interest loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration.
 
A preliminary damage assessment conducted by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and FEMA found 64 homes in Peoria County had sustained some level of damage, including 15 homes that suffered major damage. For more information, please call Peoria County's Emergency Management Agency at (309) 691-3111.