News Releases for July 2005
July 1, 2005
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Hoeven Continues To Pursue Recovery Assistance, Thanks Volunteer Organizations For Continued Support
2-1-1 Service Available For Individual Assistance Information
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today thanked the group Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) for their aid to North Dakota residents needing individual assistance for damages from severe storms and flooding, in concurrence with state agency response efforts. Individuals with unmet needs are encouraged to dial 2-1-1, a service line for referral assistance.
The Department of Emergency Services has been working with state agencies, such as the N.D. Department of Human Services, as well as VOAD, a group of 17 volunteer, non-profit organizations across the state, to identify sources to address unmet needs. The Governor encouraged volunteers to continue their work, and invited others to join in the effort. The recent preliminary damage assessment did not meet levels to trigger federal assistance.
"In true North Dakota fashion, VOAD has contributed significant efforts right from the start in helping citizens to deal with recent storm and flood damage," Hoeven said. "We have initiated the Bank of North Dakota low interest loan program for homeowners, farmers and business, and we continue to identify additional resources to reassure communities currently requesting individual assistance that help is available for those without other means to recover from their losses."
Hoeven directed N.D. Division of Homeland Security Director Susan Reinertson to identify sources of state and local assistance for residents. Also, the Governor is pursuing a Presidential Disaster Declaration, which will clear the way for federal public assistance to cities and counties for infrastructure repairs.
"The initial emergency response by homeowners, neighbors, friends, and volunteer agencies provided much needed help to communities with immediate needs," said Reinertson. "However, recovery assistance for major repair or replacement costs cannot be met in the same manner. We are pursuing non-federal means of assistance to help families and businesses with unmet needs."
VOAD agencies met Monday, June 27, 2005 to determine what types of assistance will be available, who will supply it and how those impacted with uninsured damages to their homes can contact relief agencies providing assistance.
Individuals who have unmet needs can call 2-1-1, a toll free statewide line. They will be asked to provide a brief description of damages to their homes. The 2-1-1 service will contact a relief agency for screening and, if appropriate, will send an application to individuals by mail. The 2-1-1 service provides information referral and crisis management services in North Dakota. Calls are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help individuals locate assistance.
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