BY JILL D’AMICO

An Aug. 8 storm felled trees, brought flooding – even a tornado – to Brooklyn.

Earlier this month, President George W. Bush declared Brooklyn and Queens federal disaster areas. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) soon followed by setting up centers to help residents and business owners assess the damage and apply for grants and low-interest loans to get back on their feet.

But FEMA and SBA say the response has been much lower than expected in Brooklyn; so, after a slow start, the agencies are asking that people come to them.

Homeowners have until Oct. 30 to register for disaster assistance, while businesses claiming “Economic Impact” have until June 2, 2008.

Bonnie Wright, a representative for SBA, said some people are deterred from applying for aid, because they often mistakenly believe they do not qualify for FEMA grants or have the credit for an SBA loan.  She is urging residents not to shut themselves out of an opportunity for assistance by simply registering.

“Registering does not commit to anything,” Ms. Wright assured.

In fact, she pointed out the only way people can get help is by registering. Even if a loan applicant is turned down by SBA, they could still be considered for grant money from FEMA.

Those in need have three ways to register:

Online:
Federal Emergency Management Administration
Small Business Administration

By phone:
FEMA - 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
SBA - 1-800-659-2955

In person:
The Sunset Park center is located at 552 59th St.
Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Williamsburg mobile center is located at 240 Division Ave.
Open from 11a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

More information:

FEMA storm information

Disaster declaration

SBA disaster declaration (PDF file)

SBA service centers (PDF file)