The costs associated with Sandy will run into the billions.As we assess the damage from the storm it is reassuring to know that help is on the way.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal disaster aid has been made available to the State of New York and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by Hurricane Sandy beginning on October 27, 2012, and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and some organizations in Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Richmond, Suffolk, and Queens counties. If your county is not listed, don’t give up hope. Sometimes the disaster declaration is expanded. As we receive more information we’ll send it out.

As the result of the designation, individuals residing in the designated counties can qualify for assistance that can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured or underinsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Governments and some nonprofits can receive partial reimbursement for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Sandy.

The federal assistance is for the reimbursement of covered and documented expenses. You don’t have to wait to begin your repairs, just document the damage (pictures are helpful) keep a careful record of your outlays (e.g.,  staff time, contractors, equipment, purchases, etc.).

If you think that you, your business or your organization are eligible, begin applying for assistance by registering online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).  Remember, FEMA aid is for uninsured and underinsured expenses. Start the recovery process by contacting your insurance carrier.

JCRC-NY worked closely with FEMA during last year’s blizzard and Irene. We will be getting out information and coordinating with leaders in the most-affected communities to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.