FEMA Outreach Program Extends To Hardest Hit Areas Of State

More than 260 FEMA agents are in the state to meet face-to-face with as many victims as they can in some of the hardest hit areas.

Thursday, FEMA representative George Graham went door-to-door in Washington County, telling storm victims help is here.

Plymouth resident English Norman waited a week to show someone what Isabel did to his home.

"As soon as I stepped out of the room, the tree came crashing down right through the whole roof of the room. [It just] missed me," he said.

Several storm victims in Washington County are still lining up for ice and meals at local fire stations. Graham and his group use the time to hand out fliers and tell residents how to report damage.

"It's very widespread in this state right now. We've had more than 7,000 people call in and apply for assistance already in one week," said FEMA's Jeni Goevelinger.

"I think it's great. I think a firsthand look is better than all the talking in the world," storm victim Jack Patrick said.

Assistance could take a few more weeks, but after walking out of his home alive, Norman said there is no room to complain.

"It's a blessing from God," he said.

FEMA's mobile

disaster recovery center

opens Friday at 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the J. W. Faison Administration Building, 9495 U.S. Highway 305 in Jackson. It will open at 1 p.m. on Friday, September 26, and then be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Tuesday.

Another mobile recovery center is open at Cape Hatteras Volunteer Fire Department, 57177 State Highway 12 in Hatteras. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Monday.

Before visiting any disaster relief center, applicants should first register for assistance by calling FEMA at (800) 621-FEMA (3362). Individuals with speech or hearing impairments who use special keyboard equipment (TTY) should call (800) 462-7585.

The lines are open from 7 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, until further notice.