FEMA offering locals trailer relocation help

Dear Editor,

FEMA is expediting the relocation of residents to other suitable housing following the preliminary formaldehyde results of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) testing of travel trailers in Louisiana and Mississippi.

Our first priority is occupants with health concerns and those most susceptible to health risks such as the elderly, households with young children and those with respiratory challenges. The previously announced closure of all group sites and relocation of residents by June 1 will continue as part of our ongoing efforts.

To best ensure these relocations proceed expeditiously, FEMA is prepared to do the following:

• Pay transportation relocation costs;

• Contract directly with landlords and hotel/motel owners to eliminate credit and/or background issues;

• Pay rent up front to landlords and necessary security deposits and utilities;

• Utilize contract resources to support local relocation;

• Provide food vouchers and stipends;

• Contract for temporary storage and/or shipping of household property;

• Pay for boarding and care of household pets; and

• Work with voluntary agencies to provide furniture.

FEMA applicants relocating to apartments because of formaldehyde concerns will not be required to pay the $50 per month increase on their rental unit until September. This was scheduled to begin March 1.

Families residing in each of the 519 units tested by CDC will be personally provided the specific results for their home, and all other occupants may request testing. FEMA caseworkers will continue to help residents identify alternate housing and access information that can lead to self-sufficiency and a sustainable future.

Occupants with formaldehyde or housing questions should call FEMA 24/7 at 1-866-562-2381, or TTY 1-800-462-7585. CDC specialists will respond to health-related concerns at 1-800-CDC-INFO. More information is available at www.fema.gov or www.cdc.gov.

Jim Stark

Acting Associate Deputy Administrator, FEMA’s Gulf Coast Recovery Office