Aid application deadline approaching

The 60-day sign-up period ends on March 16 for FEMA assistance for anyone affected by the Jan. 12 long-track tornado that destroyed or damaged homes across the area.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency last month recognized Tallapoosa County as a major disaster area following the storm that swept through the county toppling trees and utility lines and damaging property.

FEMA representatives visited the county Jan. 27 to provide aid to area residents affected by the storm, said Tallapoosa County EMA Manager Jason Moran.

“They’re going door to door to the people that are home, and where we know where the damage was and see if they can assist them,” Moran said.

Moran said current assessments have determined at least 30 homes countywide were impacted based on damage criteria from FEMA. According to Moran, the Jan. 12 storm destroyed 10 homes and severely damaged another 20 properties across

Restoration

Anyone affected by the Jan. 12 tornado has one more month to sign up for FEMA aid.

Tallapoosa County and surrounding areas.

According to Moran, authentic FEMA representatives will present ID name badges and credentials when approaching county residents.

The federal agency also plans to establish a disaster recovery center where people can go to inquire about available assistance.

In addition to FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration designated Tallapoosa County as a storm disaster area, which qualifies affected business owners or residents for the federal agency’s disaster assistance loans. Individuals must start the process with FEMA before being referred to SBA.

Those seeking FEMA disaster assistance can fill out an application online or on the agency’s app or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

~ William Marlow