FEMA application deadline nears

By Sam Waller

The deadline for Shackelford County residents to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance following February’s winter storm is coming up quickly on Monday, Aug. 23.

Claims can be filed by calling 1-800-621-3362.

“Potential applicants should call the number first to get the account started,” Shackelford County judge Robert Skelton said. “Once they get the account set up, they can upload their pictures and documents on the internet.”

Shackelford County was not added to the list of counties eligible for federal relief until July.

Skelton said some residents and businesses have already applied.

“There were 33 businesses and residents that filed information at the time of the incident,” he said. “We’re reporting to the Texas Department of Emergency Management that 12 have contacted FEMA so far.”

Skelton said any funds received will be from the federal agency.

“There’s no money available from the state,” he said. “All the recovery money is through FEMA. The Texas Department of Emergency Management helps the counties navigate the FEMA network.”

February’s storm marks one of the few times Shackelford County has been declared eligible for federal disaster relief. The “100 Year Flood” of 1978 may have been the last time that local residents received FEMA assistance, said Skelton

The county judge advised applicants to have documentation for their claims.

“Be conscious that they may ask you for pictures, insurance documents, and that kind of information,” he said.