More Than 120 File Claims at Disaster Recovery Center in Groton

The Disaster Recovery Center in Groton had more than 120 people file claims Hurricane Sandy damage claims as of Friday, with more coming in, the center reported.

Ron Peterson, manager of the Groton center, said most were for items like water heaters lost in the storm due to flooding, and minor damage to residences.

He said people were in a good mood for the most part, and calm when they arrived.

FEMA deals only with primary residences, so people with second houses like some who own vacation homes on Groton Long Point, are not be eligible for FEMA assistance. But Peterson said they may be eligible for assistance through the Small Business Administration if the house is rented, as it could then be considered a business.

The SBA has an office next to the Disaster Recovery Center inside the Groton Senior Center.

Peterson said the main goal of FEMA is making primary residences safe, sanitary and secure.

“So if their windows are broken, FEMA provides temporary housing and minimal repair funds,” he explained.

“If they still have electricity and they can put up boards, they can live in it. But if the roof is damaged and water is coming in,” they can’t, he said.

FEMA also kicks in after homeowner’s insurance. Many of the people in places like Groton Long Point had flood insurance, so they are protected to the extent that insurance covers damage from flooding.

FEMA requests that you register by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov before visiting the Disaster Recovery Center. (For those with speech or hearing disabilities, the TTY number is 800-462-7585.)
The Disaster Recovery Center in Groton is located at 102 Newtown Road in the senior center, and is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.