The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Pierce County.
The mobile disaster center will be open at the Southeast Georgia Regional Agriculture Center (SEGARAC) (formerly the NFC Building) at 705 College Avenue in Blackshear. The center will be set up on the second floor.
Local victims who suffered damage during Hurricane Helene can come to the center to get help applying for federal assistance, receive updates on their applications and learn about the appeals process.
Kelly Gas kins, media relations specialist with FEMA, encourages local residents to come and get the help they need.
“Our mobile center is designed to meet you where you are and offer assistance. We will be here as long as we are needed,” she said.
Those coming to the center will receive oneon- one help with a FEMA representative who will go through the process step-by-step.
Gaskins said FEMA has already helped over 175,000 Georgians and have provided $215 million to assist with disaster relief efforts.
Gaskins gave some tips and information for residents seeking assistance.
She encourages homeowners to file claims with their homeowners insurance first.
“FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance and we may be able to help,” she said.
Gaskins pointed out FEMA relief funds are given in the form of a grant, meaning they do not have to be paid back. The money is also not taxable and it does not affect other federal benefits. She stressed the funds must be used for disaster relief and repairs. “It can’t be used for vacations or to buy new televisions,” she said. “The money is to be used for repairs, to make your home safe, sanitary and functional again.”
Gaskins also said there are options to assist those who are unable to visit the mobile disaster center.
“If you have mobility issues, there are (other) ways to register. You can call 1-800-621-3362, download the FEMA app on your phone or go onl i n e disasterassistance.gov.
The Pierce County Center will be open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. through Wednesday, Nov. 14-Saturday, Nov. 16.
