Suffolk News-Herald

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is making it easier for Suffolk residents hit by Hurricane Isabel to apply for federal loans and grants.

At 1 p.m. today, the agency will open a disaster recovery center at the National Guard Armory on Godwin Boulevard. The center will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

&uot;Having a center here in town will make it more convenient for residents who are applying for assistance,&uot; said Dana Woodson, spokeswoman for the city.

Representatives from FEMA, the state, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), other federal and state agencies, as well as voluntary organizations will be available to provide information on disaster recovery programs.

Additionally, the SBA will be available to help those affected fill out applications for low-interest loans for homeowners, renters and businesses.

Thus far, FEMA has approved more than $8.4 million in grants to help people impacted by Isabel.

Those funds are earmarked to help homeowners and renters needing a place to stay or who may need to make repairs for their homes to be functional.

FEMA has also approved more than $4.2 million to help residents cover other eligible disaster needs, such as replacing personal property and other expenses such as medical, dental and funeral not covered by insurance.

Residents can register for assistance by calling FEMA’s toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).