FEMA: $950K In Sandy Aid Distributed So Far in Westchester

FEMA has distributed about $950,000 to Westchester County residents displaced during the month since Superstorm Sandy, Steven Ward, FEMA Branch III director, announced this week.

That money has been used to pay rent, make repairs and help with other needs following the storm, Ward said. In total, almost $750 million has been distributed throughout New York State to date.

There are also more funds available to those that qualify. The deadline to register damages with FEMA has been extended until Dec. 31, 2012, Ward said. After the deadline residents have a full year to send insurance and other information necessary to complete a claim.

In addition to the money distributed directly by FEMA, Ward said 329 residents have received assistance from the National Flood Insurance Program, which is government insurance that was offered through FEMA to people affected by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee.

Ward also announced that FEMA will be starting a local hiring program, which will replace 25 percent of FEMA employees with local hires over the next six months. Anyone interested in applying should visit the New York State job bank website and search for FEMA.

The Westchester County Center remains open every day for people who have questions about filing a claim. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The FEMA helpline is also available for questions at 1-800-621-FEMA.