The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) this weekend detailed its continuing efforts to help those impacted by Hurricane Sandy. At the direction of the president, the agency is providing individual assistance for disaster survivors.

“More than $455 million has already been approved for individuals to assist with housing and other disaster-related needs,” said Craig Fugate, FEMA administrator. “Impacted residents and business owners in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York should apply for assistance today.”

The agency stated that its top priority remains “supporting states, tribes, and communities.” The president has approved an extension to the 100% cost share for emergency work performed by state, tribal, and local governments through November 14. The cost share applies to emergency work performed to restore emergency power and emergency public transportation.

New York in particular has been the recipient of more than $300 million to help individuals and families recover. FEMA stated that 169,000 New Yorkers have contacted the agency for assistance, with more than 86,000 of them applying online. 26 Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open in nine New York counties, with two new DRCs just opened in Borough Hall on Staten Island and in Huntington Town Hall in Huntington. FEMA has 1,077 specialists going door to door to explain the types of assistance available, and 1,121 inspectors assessing home damage in the area.

In addition to FEMA, The American Red Cross has distributed over 740,000 meals and thousands of comfort and clean-up kits. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also has dump trucks and long haul trucks clearing away thousands of cubic yards of debris, and has completed pumping water out of the Jersey City PATH tunnel.

(Image courtesy FEMA on Facebook)