|
February 22, 2021
Dear Friend,
North Texans are again facing enormous challenges as our region and our state begin to recover from last week’s winter storm. I share the same frustrations as many of you about the lack of communication ahead of the storm and also have questions about the failure to prepare for a storm we knew was coming. I’ve started working to get answers and will keep pressing for clarity on what happened.
Throughout the past week, I have been in contact with FEMA and TDEM representatives, ERCOT officials, and local leaders stressing the need for assistance to help our region recover. I joined my colleagues in Congress in urging FEMA to approve Texas' request for a major disaster declaration. President Biden has since signed the major disaster declaration, paving the way for federal assistance, critical for our recovery efforts, to come to Texas. North Texans can now apply for assistance to cover temporary lodging, home repairs, and uninsured or underinsured property losses.
If your home suffered property damage during the winter storm, you can apply for FEMA funds:
- First file an insurance claim. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments.
- You can apply online at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or by calling the FEMA Disaster Assistance Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
- Take the following steps:
You can also call 211 for assistance.
A few helpful reminders:
- If you or someone you know needs food assistance during this time, there are a number of government and voluntary organizations offering free food distribution. Find out more here.
- COVID-19 vaccine distribution was delayed last week, but vaccine distribution has ramped up again. For more information on North Texas vaccine hubs, visit https://dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/immunize/vaccine-hubs.
- Dallas County water is safe to drink. Dallas Water Utilities wants to assure residents that the DWU water system remains safe, stable, and functioning. Dallas is not and was never under a boil water notice. DWU customers may call 3-1-1 for urgent water issues such as busted pipes.
- The boil water notice for the City of Garland has been lifted and water is safe to drink. For water emergencies in Garland, call 972 205-3210 or email [email protected].
- Be aware of illegal price gouging. It is illegal for businesses to raise the price of essential items like food, lodging, or medicine beyond the normal price during a disaster. If you believe a business is price gouging, you can file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General.
- Beware of scammers, who often prey on victims of disaster. FEMA has information on its website on how to spot a scam. If something seems suspicious to you, you can learn more and file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General.
My office is here to be a resource for you. We can help to answer your questions and connect you with resources. Please do not hesitate to give us a call (972) 972-7949.
The past year has brought challenge after challenge to our region, but I was again inspired by what I saw last week. Folks across North Texas came together to help one another weather the storm and begin the recovery process. As always, I am proud to serve North Texas, where I was born and raised, and I know we will get through this like we always do, by coming together.
Sincerely,
Colin Allred
Member of Congress
Click here to subscribe to my e-newsletter
|
