ST. CROIX — Hurricane Irma or Maria survivors who have registered for disaster aid should remember that keeping in touch with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) could result in more timely assistance, FEMA said Monday.
FEMA recommends survivors make sure they update their address, phone number, and banking and insurance information if there are any changes after they register. Updated banking information is very important after a disaster because assistance grants may be sent via direct deposit and incorrect information could result in funds being returned.
By providing current information survivors can make sure they don’t miss important correspondence or phone calls regarding their application for assistance.
“Displaced Virgin Islanders may be moving around quite a bit as they work to recover,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer William Vogel. “Please let us know each time you change any important information so we get help to you as quickly as possible.”
Applicants may update their contact or banking information at a Disaster Recovery Center in their area, online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via phone at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services can call 800-621-3362.
The toll-free telephone numbers are operating from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice. Operators are standing by to assist survivors in multiple languages.
Two recovery centers are open in St. Croix, and others will open soon in St. Thomas and St. John. The Frederiksted center is at the Rotary Club West, 40 KA-KD Estate LaGrange. The Christiansted center is at the Old Post Office Building at Church and Company streets. Operating hours for both recovery centers are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice.
Tags: federal emergency management agency, us virgin islands
Share On Facebook
Tweet It
