The federal government will support Rhode Islanders affected by severe weather and flooding earlier this year and in December of last year, Gov. Dan McKee announced Thursday after President Joseph Biden approved two federal disaster declarations for the state.
The first declaration covers areas affected from Dec. 17 to 19, 2023, while the second includes communities impacted from Jan. 9 to 13, 2024.
President Biden’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and initiates SBA disaster assistance for businesses in the counties of Kent, Providence, and Washington. The assistance available to individuals includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and disaster legal services. SBA assistance, on the other hand, includes low-interest loans to help business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
“When severe weather strikes, it’s important Rhode Islanders are not only prepared and ready to react, but know that their government stands with them,” McKee said in a news release. “I thank President Biden and FEMA for their approval of this relief, which will help affected families and businesses who suffered losses get their lives back on track.”
Robert V. Fogel has been appointed Federal Coordinating Officer to oversee federal recovery. Individuals affected can apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA APP. Businesses impacted can apply for assistance at SBA.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
