President Bush has announced that Texas and Louisiana are major disaster areas. This declaration has made available federal disaster aid programs from government agencies such as the FEMA, SBA, and FSA. What Ike and Gustav have taken away, our government can help rebuild.

Assistance from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) includes:
- Rent money for temporary housing, if your home is too damaged to go back to
- Grants to repair homes and replace household items not covered by insurance
- Grants to replace personal property, and to meet other disaster-related expenses, if they’re not covered by insurance or other aid programs
- Support if unemployed due to the disaster

If your business has taken a hit, other government agencies are also ready to help:
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest loans to cover residential and business losses that aren’t fully covered by insurance. Loans are from $40,000 to $200,000 for residential and personal property, and up to $2 million for business properties.
- The SBA also offers loans up to $2 million for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations.
- The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers loans up to $500,000 for ranchers, farmers and aquaculture operators.
- Crisis counseling will also be available, as well as income tax assistance and counseling for veteran benefits. Legal and social security concerns will also be handled.

Remember, when applying for the grants, you need to be able to provide basic information about yourself. Other information, especially about insurance details, would also be very helpful. Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for more information.

When it’s time to rebuild, it’s time to see if there are grants out there that have you in mind. Fill up the box above to see what offers apply to you!