Individual homeowners, renters, businesses, or others who suffered losses as a result of flooding at the end of August are eligible for assistance to repair homes or to recover other losses. Even if the damage is minor, or if you are unsure whether damage will be covered by federal grants, individuals should apply ASAP. The deadline for applying for both FEMA and SBA assistance is November 15, 2011.
If you are a resident with storm damage who has not yet registered with FEMA and SBA, please call 800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech disability or hearing loss who use a TTY can call 800-462-7585 directly, or 800-621-3362, if using 711 or Video Relay Service. Registration can also be done online anytime at www.disasterassistance.gov or through web-enables mobile phone devices or smartphones at m.fema.gov
Storm recovery assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is not just for businesses. Vermont homeowners and renters may also be eligible for significant SBA assistance in the form of grants and flexible low-interest loans. Interested residents need to contact FEMA first and then SBA. Applicants in need of assistance filling out SBA application forms should specifically ask SBA for customer assistance.
Click here to read a list of frequently asked Questions about SBA assistance for Vermonters (460 KB; PDF). Additional questions may be directed to SBA staff at one of the Disaster Recovery Centers, to local Small Business Development Center Counselors or the SBA Help line at 1-800-659-2955. More information can be found at SBA's website.
Three disaster recovery centers are open from 9:00AM until 5:00PM, Monday through Saturday, in the following locations:
- Rutland Heart Center
1 Commons Street
Rutland, VT 05701 - Dover Town Hall
120 Taft Brook Road
Dover, VT 05341 - Waterbury Fire Department
43 South Main Street
Waterbury, VT 05676
To register for FEMA's public assistance, communities that suffered damage in the floods should submit their application to the Vermont Agency of Transportation. FEMA will provide at least 74% reimbursement for storm response and recovery costs for municipalities. Regional planning commissions, the Vermont Agency of Transportation, and PA specialists from FEMA can help with the application process.