CAPE COUNTY FLOOD VICTIMS GET $50,000 IN HOUSING ASSISTANCE

While nearly $1 million in federal disaster housing assistance has been paid to flood victims in Missouri, Cape Girardeau County residents have taken in only about $50,000 as of Monday.

Susie Stonner with the State Emergency Management Agency in Jefferson City said 27 checks for temporary housing were sent to Cape Girardeau County, which was declared eligible for individual assistance June 12 and public assistance June 20.

The money comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency through SEMA.

In most cases, individual applicants are receiving assistance within seven to 10 working days from the time they call FEMA's registration line. Stonner said flood victims should call the line as soon as possible, because there will be a deadline for receiving assistance.

Officials from Cape Girardeau, Perry and Scott counties will find out more about public assistance for roads, sewers and other public works at a meeting with FEMA Friday at the county administration building.

They will have 30 days from the date of the meeting to file a notice of interest for assistance. Stonner said some may have their notices ready in time for the meeting.

The number to call to register with FEMA is 1-800-462-9029; TDD 1-800-462-7585. Disaster housing assistance checks must be used only for disaster-related housing purposes such as short-term lodging, essential home repairs and rent or mortgage payments.