FEMA registration centers aim to aid in flood recovery efforts

INEZ, Ky. (WYMT) – With many people still searching for help after severe weather poured through the state earlier this year, FEMA is offering face-to-face help to ease the burden.

Registration help centers are open in several places across the region, with FEMA representatives working to help those impacted by the flooding events from February 27 through March 14.

“I think it’s very satisfying to know that you are helping people, you know, on the road to recovery, because they’ve been devastated by loss,” said FEMA representative Hattie Stallworth.

Though the process has been open for months to allow people to apply for individual assistance, not everyone is comfortable with the online application, so this face-to-face option is making it more convenient for many. Including Inez woman Kathleen Collins, whose home was impacted by the floodwaters.

“I have never lost a bridge. You know, the bridge was completely washed away. The driveway was a total disaster,” she recalled. “It shocks me to know truly how forceful water really is. You know, how much damage that it can do.”

She said the help received at the registration help center was like a burden lifted, helping her to ensure she was on the right path in seeking assistance.

“I love the fact that they came and give you a chance to speak to them and are so nice and willing to help you,” she said.

Thursday through Saturday, representatives are on site in one of the centers at the Martin County Business Center, where people can drop in without an appointment to receive help with their applications in preparation for the June 23 deadline.

The help centers are open Friday and Saturday, from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. in Elliott, Martin, and Magoffin counties. Anyone in the approved 31 counties can seek assistance at any location. Online applications are also available.