FEMA drive-thru center closes Saturday

Lincoln Parish residents still needing to register or do other business with FEMA relating to Hurricane Laura have only two days left to do so in person at the drivethru disaster recovery center located in the Lincoln Parish Library parking lot.

The center is open until 6 p.m. today and from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday. Though the assistance registration deadline has been extended to Nov. 27, the local drive-thru center will close at the end of business on Saturday.

More than 60 people visited the drive-thru center this week, bringing the total to approximately 150 local Laura survivors helped by the center, FEMA Media Relations Specialist Hattie Stallworth said.

All totaled, 2,363 parish residents have registered with FEMA. Some $623,627 is already in the hands of local survivors, Stallworth said.

For people needing to turn in documentation already requested by FEMA, personnel at the drive-thru center are set up to scan originals.

Homeowners and renters can apply for federal assistance, which includes help for temporary housing, rental assistance and repair or replacement of damaged property.

Grants may be available as well to help with other expenses such as medical and dental care, childcare, replacing essential household items, moving and storage, vehicle repairs and cleanup, according to a FEMA press release.

In addition to the drive-thru option, residents can also register with FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 and through the FEMA mobile app. To download the app text either ANDROID or APPLE to 43362.

The state has launched an online hub for Hurricane Laura information at hurricanelaura.la.gov, which highlights news and links to resources. Additionally, the governor’s office has also established a Lauraspecific texting list to give to people wanting updates on Hurricane Laura. Text LAURA to 67283 to receive updates.