FEMA Canvassing in St. Louis-Area

Communities to Assist Flood Survivors

FEMA began canvassing St. Louis-area communities affected by recent flooding starting Wednesday, Aug. 10.

Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews will be working in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County.

DSA personnel work in communities designated as federal disaster areas to help renters and homeowners apply with FEMA and quickly identify and address immediate and emerging needs. They also can provide application updates and referrals to additional community resources for remaining needs.

On August 8, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved FEMA Individual Assistance for the City of St. Louis and St. Louis and St. Charles counties, which were impacted by flooding that occurred from July 25 through July 28.

This assistance can include help with making temporary repairs to disaster-damaged homes, paying for another short-term place to live while permanent repairs are being made, and help with serious, disaster-related needs not already covered by other programs.

FEMA DSA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification and FEMA clothing. Missouri residents are reminded to ask for official photo identification before providing personal information.

Housing inspectors contracted by FEMA also will be working in disaster-designated areas, inspecting damage sustained by survivors who have already applied with FEMA. When FEMA-contracted inspectors arrive at a home, they will display official photo identification. If the photo identification is not visible, it’s OK to ask to see it. This helps prevent fraud.

Many legitimate disaster assistance representatives also may visit your property such as insurance agents, damage inspectors, FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff.

FEMA employees do not solicit or accept money from disaster survivors. FEMA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help with registration.

Here are some tips to safeguard against fraud:

Ask to see ID badges. All FEMA representatives wear a federal photo ID badge. A FEMA shirt or jacket is not absolute proof of identity. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with anyone you encounter, please contact local law enforcement.

Beware of people claiming to be Building Contractors going door-to-door. People knocking on doors at damaged homes or phoning homeowners claiming to be building contractors could be con artists, especially if they ask for personal information or solicit money. Be sure to verify federal ID badges of disaster assistance staff who may visit your home.

FEMA does not have “approved” contractors. Beware of building contractors who say they are affiliated with FEMA. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand, or contracts with blank spaces.

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.

Always use licensed and bonded contractors and ask for credentials. Never pay for anything in advance of work being done.

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