Governor Earl Ray Tomblin announced that approval has been granted to amend the initial Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorization for Direct Temporary Housing to include Clay and Nicholas counties.
“As we strengthen the long-term recovery process and West Virginians rebuild their lives, we are continuously working with FEMA to address immediate needs,” said Tomblin. “The availability of Manufactured Housing Units in Clay and Nicholas counties fills a critical void in those areas for temporary housing for those who have been displaced as more permanent solutions are determined.”
The initial Direct Temporary Housing Authorization Memo, dated July 5, 2016, authorized Greenbrier and Kanawha counties to receive Manufactured Housing Units (MHUs). FEMA analysis has identified additional need for housing in Clay and Nicholas counties due to the rural nature of the areas and an increased number of households meeting the criteria.
Additionally, FEMA found a lack of rental resources within a reasonable commuting distance, and the temporary housing needs in Clay and Nicholas counties cannot be met with financial assistance alone.
For more information on temporary housing, visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). To locate a Disaster Recovery Center near you, visit asd.fema.gov/inter/locator/home.htm. Disaster Recovery Centers are staffed by FEMA representatives to provide affected residents with one-on-one assistance in registering for federal aid.
West Virginians needing assistance also can visit WVFLOOD.com, West Virginia’s primary source of information on flood recovery and volunteer efforts. This website provides up-to-date information related to recovery resources and community needs.
