NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- U.S. Reps. Suzanne Kosmas and John Mica sent a letter to President Obama today urging him to expedite the review process and issue a Major Disaster Declaration for Volusia County, which endured a week of flooding from as much as 27 inches of rain that resulted in more than $50 million in property damage.
A Major Disaster Declaration would provide individuals with access to federal aid, such as temporary housing assistance. This assistance is especially critical for individuals who do not have flood insurance.
The letter from Kosmas, D-New Smyrna Beach, and Mica, R-Winter Haven, follows Governor Crist's formal request for a Major Disaster Declaration that was sent to President Obama on Sunday.
"The unprecedented flooding that has hit our communities came without warning and has caused millions of dollars in damage," Congresswoman Kosmas said, one day after touring the hardest hit areas of New Smyrna Beach and Port Orange. "We need to be sure that individuals, especially those without flood insurance, are getting all the help they need. I urge the President to move quickly and declare a Major Disaster so Volusia residents can access critical federal assistance in order to put them back into their homes as soon as possible."
If a Major Disaster is declared, flood victims can call 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362) to receive aid.
Here is a full text of the letter from Kosmas and Mica:
Dear Mr. President:
As you are aware, recent storms have caused severe damage to the state of Florida and, in particular, to the counties and communities
of the 7th and 24th Congressional Districts. On Sunday, May 24, 2009, Florida Governor Charlie Crist requested that you declare a major
disaster for the State of Florida. We respectfully request that your administration expedite its review of the Governor's request and provide
an emergency declaration that would make our constituents eligible for individual assistance.
Unfortunately, a significant number of home owners arecurrently ineligible for federal assistance without that declaration. We
have been informed by the state of Florida and the various jurisdictions that we represent that more than a significant number of uninsured
residents qualify, therefore making our areas eligible for a federal declaration. Having received numerous calls from individuals seeking federal assistance following water damage and flooding from the storm, your expedited action on this request would be appreciated.