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Washington, D.C. - In an effort to speed up local fire recovery efforts, Congressman Randy Neugebauer is going directly to the top of the federal agency dedicated to responding to emergencies.
At the top is R. David Paulison, a former fire fighter and newly appointed director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). During a Thursday afternoon phone conversation with Director Paulison, Neugebauer stressed the need for federal assistance in order help communities bounce back from recent fires and prevent any further damage from future fires.
“It is imperative that officials in Washington fully understand the stark reality of what is going on the ground,” Neugebauer said. “There has been extensive damage to communities and personal property throughout West Texas and the Big Country. And with continued low humidity and high winds, there is a real danger of more fires to come. From our conversation, I believe Director Paulison recognizes the urgency of the situation and understands the need to act as quickly as possible.”
FEMA currently heads a team that is conducting a “Preliminary Damage Assessment” (PDA). The team also includes representatives from the U.S Small Business Administration and the State of Texas. Once the PDA is completed, which could be as early as this weekend according to Director Paulison, FEMA will then make recommendations to President Bush about how much federal assistance will be provided.
“Whether it is low interest loans to help small business get up and running again or firefighter grants to help cover escalating recovery costs, I believe there are opportunities for the federal government to help in this effort,” Neugebauer said. “As this process moves forward, I am committed to working with FEMA to help communities get back on their feet so that people can continue to live in their hometowns.”
In addition to speaking with Director Paulison, Neugebauer has also sent a letter to President Bush urging him to issue a federal emergency declaration for Texas
Neugebauer encourages those in need of immediate assistance to take advantage of the following resources:
- 2-1-1 Texas (to find out where to get assistance from various state and local agencies): dial 2-1-1
- Department of Aging and Disability Services: 325-795-5694
- Medicare cost-share programs (for out-of-pocket Medicare expenses): 325-795-5717
- Big Country Chapter of the American Red Cross: 325-677-2622
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