MEDIA RELEASE
September 3, 2011
CONTACT:
Alexandra MacLean
1-802-272-0443
GOV. SHUMLIN’S REQUEST FOR WINDHAM COUNTY DISASTER DECLARATION ASSISTANCE GRANTED
Montpelier, Vt., – Governor Peter Shumlin announced today that his request to add Windham County to the Individual Disaster declaration was granted by the Federal Emergency Management Association. Windham, the southeast corner of the state, is the 5th Vermont County to qualify for federal aid to supplement state recovery efforts underway since Tropical Storm Irene hit Vermont on Aug. 28.
President Barack Obama declared a major disaster exists in the State of Vermont and approved individual federal assistance for Windsor, Rutland and Chittenden County on Thursday.
“Extending aid to Windham County shows the federal assessors clearly understand the full scale of the storm and flood damage and are working closely with us to assist Vermonters though our recovery process,” Gov. Shumlin said. “I am once again thankful to President Obama for responding so quickly to our request for assistance.”
Assessors continue to work in Addison, Bennington and Orange Counties and requests for assistance in those counties will be sent shortly. Also under the declaration, state and local government in 13 counties will be eligible for funds to assist with the cost of repairing damaged infrastructure including roads and schools.
Individuals reporting damage in Chittenden, Washington, Windham, Windsor and Rutland counties should call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
The Governor announced yesterday that his office will remain open throughout the weekend as well as on Labor Day to answer questions and address concerns from Vermonters. Vermonters can reach the office by calling 1-802-828-3333.
