West coast flooding: Damage Assistance applications - 12 noon

The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization (NLEMO) offers residents in the affected flood areas on the west coast who will be applying for Damage Assistance the following information.

• The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization (NLEMO), which is responsible for administering the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), a joint federal/provincial disaster assistance program, has applied to the federal government to seek approval to move forward with this program.
   
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing officials will be on the ground in Stephenville and affected areas during the day to document / photograph initial damage.
   
• All residents requiring assistance are required to make formal application.
   
• Claimants are advised to enclose pictures, videos and any other documentation which will support a claim.
   
• Any work undertaken or items purchased to limit or repair damages should be explained and be included with a claim. As well, all invoices and verification of payment should be submitted with the application.
   
• Please do not destroy damaged items, as they will have to be verified by the insurance adjuster.
   
• Once an application has been received an insurance adjuster will be assigned to the claim, and will contact the applicant after that time.
   
• Please note that this program is not an insurance policy and will not cover all damages that would normally be covered under an insurance policy. This program will only cover items deemed essential.

Applications:
Applications for financial assistance will be available late Thursday afternoon or Friday at the following locations:

Stephenville - Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Office, 58 O'Reagan Drive
Deer Lake - Fire Commissioner�s Office, 2 Wellon Drive (changed from Town Hall)
Kippens and Reidville - Town Halls

A toll-free number has been set up for those requiring information on applications, and general inquiries concerning the claims package. The number is 1-888-395-5611.

Claimants may also contact the Emergency Measures Organization via e-mail at NLEMO@gov.nl.ca to request information or a claims package.

The claims package should be completed and submitted to:

Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization
Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
P.O. Box 8700, St. John's, NL
A1B 4J6

Media contact: Heather MacLean, Communications, (709) 729-1983, 690-2498 or heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2005 09 29                   12:10 p.m.