September 12, 2008

DISASTER ASSISTANCE CENTER TO REMAIN OPEN AN EXTRA WEEK

Charlotte, NC – The Disaster Assistance Center in Charlotte will remain open at least through Friday, September 19, 2008. Federal and state agencies have just informed local officials that the office will remain open an additional week to accept applications for state funded disaster grants and federally backed flood recovery loans. 

The Center is only accepting applications from Mecklenburg County residents whose flood damage resulted from the August 27 storm. In its first week of operation, more than 100 people applied for assistance.  

Low-interest disaster loans are offered to homeowners, renters, businesspeople and vehicle owners whose flood losses from Tropical Storm Fay are not covered by insurance or other compensation. North Carolina Emergency Management offers grants to eligible disaster victims who do not qualify for an SBA loan. To qualify for either program, the applicant must meet predetermined eligibility criteria. 

Disaster Assistance Center Location:
Mecklenburg County Hal Marshall Services Center Annex
618 North College Street in Charlotte 

Hours of operation:

            Friday, September 12                                         9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

            Saturday, September 13                                     9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

            Sunday, September 14                                       Closed

            Monday through Friday, Sept. 15 through 19        9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Residents can request a mailed application by calling 800-659-2955. Forms are also available at www.sba.gov. For more information, call the Disaster Assistance Center in Charlotte at 704-432-1898.