BY JESSICA HATFIELD

Associate Editor

Mingo and Wyoming Counties have been approved by President Barack Obama as federal disasters which now allows those affected by the recent flooding a beacon of hope.

Federal assistance will now be available, which will allow grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover.

According to Gilbert Mayor Vivian Livingood, FEMA Representatives have already been in town, and was elated by the President’s declaration.

“It felt like it took forever for the President to make the declaration,” she stated. “This means we are now eligible for federal funding and hopefully this will lighten the burdens of man people.”

“As Mayor, along with the dedicated town council members, I will go after every resource available to assist this community to get back on its feet.”

“We are strong people and we have great faith and believe in our community and it has shown by the support given in times like this.”

Livingood stated she has already met with six FEMA representatives, and office is being scouted to set up operations. The Mayor predicted that FEMA would most likely operate out of the Larry Joe Harless Center, due to its accessibility to the public.

Livingood stated that receiving help from FEMA would take time, and everyone should be very patient during this time.

“This is not an easy process,” said Livingood. “It will take time and everyone must fill out paperwork to qualify.”

“Patience and diligence on the communities’ part will be the key and individuals should seek this help,” she added.

Look for future editions of The Gilbert Times on more information on applying for FEMA assistance.