FEMA Assists Plymouth Residents in Need after Irene

On Sunday, Aug. 28, 2011, Hurricane Irene swept through New England, flooding from the storm leaving many Plymouth residents with damaged homes and possessions, even forcing some to evacuate. The weather that day had been so severe that even move-in day for Plymouth State University students had been delayed.

Even though the storm happened weeks ago, many people are still dealing with the consequences of Irene and need help. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working tirelessly to lend a hand to those people that suffered damages from the hurricane, having already helped several hundred people in the Grafton and Carroll counties, which were the most affected by the storm.

FEMA's mission is to support citizens and first responders to ensure that, as a nation, we can work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability. In Plymouth, FEMA has been providing disaster assistance to those in need, including everything from appliance repairs, medical bills, rent and more. "A lot of students rent out apartments across the river. If they lost clothes, essentials, stuff not covered by insurance, or had to move because their apartment was uninhabitable, this (FEMA) fills in the gaps," says Paul Hatch, field representative of the State of New HAmpshire Department of Safety. So far, FEMA has been in the area for two weeks, and they expect to be there for at least another week to continue to support residents in Plymouth and the surrounding area.

"I think they (people affected by Irene) really need emotional support right now," says senior childhood studies major Aimee Delisle-Hall. "Flooding from Irene could have ruined family memorabilia and other really important possessions, appliances, etc. It's all just so scary." Though items like family memorabilia can never be replaced, FEMA can still help residents and students get through the disaster.

Signing up for FEMA assistance is simple, especially since they are currently stationed right at the Plymouth Town Hall. "People can register right there (Town Hall), get a number, and talk to a real person who can tell them what level of assistance they are eligible for," Hatch explained. People are offered assistance based on the amount of damage they received and their current income.

FEMA is a completely voluntary program, and people who have experienced any kind of loss or damage from the storm are encouraged to call 800-621-FEMA, for assistance or further information.