FEMA opens fourth disaster center in North Little Rock to aid flood victims

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Disaster Recovery Center in North Little Rock opened Sunday offering many resources for flood victims all under one roof.

Rain or shine organizations helping flood victims will be there.

“To provide that face-to-face assistance,” Small Business Administration PIO Yolanda Stokes said.

They are hoping to help as many people as they can.

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“Just ask those questions that they don’t know the answers to,” FEMA Public Affairs Officer Earl Armstrong said.

Individuals and businesses can stop in Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“People who have been affected by the flooding here in Arkansas can come in and talk with someone about their application, get information on what their next step should be,” Armstrong said.

This center saw about 10 people seeking assistance. They hope that number increases this week.

“After they register for assistance they may be eligible for some grant money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency or they might be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration,” Armstrong said.

These organizations want people to know what resources they may be able to get.

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“If you’re a homeowner, if you’re a renter, if you’re a private nonprofit or if you’re a business of any size we provide disaster assistance in the form of low-interest loans. These loans start at an interest rate of 1.9 percent,” Stokes said.

Referred renters and businesses may also be able to receive low-interest loans.

All you have to do is show up or call the helpline at 1 (800) 621-3362.

“There’s absolutely no obligation to take the loan if your insurance comes through or if FEMA helps you and you don’t need additional assistance you can simply cancel the loan, but we want to give people options on their recovery,” Stokes said.

Referred homeowners are eligible for up to $200k to repair or replace a primary residence.

Homeowners, business owners, and renters are encouraged to register for assistance online prior to visiting a center. You can do this at www.disasterassistance.gov.