For Immediate Release:
Monday, July 9, 2007 

WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren is making staff available to help constituents in Oklahoma’s Second Congressional District in dealing with state and federal agencies as communities begin to recover from this past month’s floods. Second District residents who need help seeking state or federal assistance are encouraged to contact one of Boren’s district offices: Muskogee - 918-687-2533, McAlester - 918-423-5951 and Claremore - 918-341-9336.

 

Additionally, in order to more efficiently collect storm damage data, individuals and business owners who have uninsured damages as a result of flooding are urged to call FEMA’s toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA, to register for assistance. Those applying should be prepared to provide basic information about themselves (name, permanent address and phone number), insurance coverage and any other information to help substantiate losses.

 

“The approval of federal assistance was a great step forward for our flood victims and will be instrumental in helping the community recover from the devastation,” Boren said. “I want to make sure we don’t see the same delays we saw with past requests for assistance – this is no time for red tape.” 

 

On July 5, Gov. Brad Henry submitted a request for a major disaster declaration. Boren immediately sent a letter to the White House, and was successful in expediting the President’s review and approval for a portion of the Governor’s request. The first round of federal assistance approved by President Bush but did not include coverage for all affected counties. As more requests are made by the state for additional counties, Boren stands ready to work for speedy approval from the White House.

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