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FEMA disaster relief center opens in Whitesboro

By HILARY LANE

Story Created: Oct 13, 2011 at 11:45 AM EDT

Story Updated: Oct 13, 2011 at 12:38 PM EDT

WHITESBORO, N.Y. (WKTV) - If your home has been damaged by Tropical Storm Lee and you live in Oneida County, there is help available for you.

FEMA has set up a local disaster relief center at the Whitesboro Fire Department where residents can speak to state representatives, FEMA workers, and apply for aid in person.

So far, FEMA has received 200 requests and has approved $320,000 worth of aid for homeowners and renters in Oneida County.

"We don't check your credit, we keep it confidential by law," says Peter Lembessis, FEMA Public Information Officer. "It does not affect social security, and this is money you don't have to pay back."

Lembessis advises those applying to make sure you have your driver's license, home address, and a phone number where a FEMA inspector can reach you.

If you cannot make it to the relief center, you can log on to www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1(800) 621- FEMA to register.

The deadline to apply for aid is November 11.

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