Montpelier, VT – September 15, 2008 – (RealEstateRama) — Help is available for homeowners who suffered damage in the heavy rains, winds, and flooding this summer. The State of Vermont’s Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) organization is still offering assistance to those who were affected by those storms and are still struggling to recover.
VT VOAD and VT Emergency Management Agency are coordinating a working group to assist those in need. Vermont 2-1-1 is ready to take calls from individuals who may be overburdened or overwhelmed by the physical, emotional or financial burden that the storms created. Residents are encouraged to dial 2-1-1, to report their needs. All information will be kept confidential between assisting agencies. Not all requests will be granted; the VOAD Long Term Recovery Committee will prioritize projects based on need and logistical considerations.
Assistance May Include:
• Either financial assistance and/or labor to eligible household to provide a safe living environment.
• Assistance will be provided only to restore or provide essential living space.
• May include financial assistance to alleviate a disaster caused economic hardship.
Assistance Will Not Include:
• Cash payment to the household (all financial assistance is in the form of low-interest loans).
• Assistance with a pre-existing social situation. Referrals will be made in this situation.
• Assistance with a pre-disaster condition.
• Repairs to rental or investment property.
• Assistance shall not be an upgrade of the applicant’s previous living condition.
Vermont 2-1-1 and VT VOAD do not guarantee that assistance will be provided, but without information on the needs of people in communities the group can not coordinate the assistance.
Media can call MaryEllen Mendl at VT 2-1-1 for more information.
Vermont 2-1-1 is a program of the United Ways of Vermont. Dial 2-1-1 anywhere in Vermont for access to statewide community information and referral.
