N.J. Gov. Reports Federal Aid Available for Flood Victims

Acting Gov. Richard Codey announced on Wednesday President Bush has declared a major disaster area for the State of New Jersey resulting from the severe storms and flooding that ravaged the state earlier this month. The declaration paves the way for Individual Assistance under the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Individuals can apply for financial aid under the Individual and Household Assistance program for eligible flood damage and temporary housing assistance. Small businesses that sustained damage as a result of the flooding may also be eligible for assistance under the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Flooding from the storms overwhelmed residents, destroyed homes and caused significant damage in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Morris, Passaic, Sussex and Warren counties. The State Office of Emergency Management’s preliminary assessment of individual damage is in excess of $52 million.

“The devastation caused by the severe flooding has taken a major toll on the citizens of New Jersey,” said Codey. “By making Individual Assistance available affected homeowners can begin to get their lives back in order.”

Codey sent a letter to the President on April 13, 2005, requesting that a major disaster be declared for the State of New Jersey, and that federal funds be made available to assist in the recovery from damages incurred by the flooding.