Rep. Gutierrez, Ald. Munoz Reach Out to Chicago Flood Victims as Deadline for FEMA Relief Approaches

Press Release

On Monday, Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez will join Alderman Ricardo Muñoz and regional leaders of FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to encourage anyone who is eligible for FEMA relief related to the July floods in Chicago to do so before the deadline of October 18, 2010. There has been a certain amount of confusion, especially in the Latino community hardest hit by the flooding, about who can and cannot apply for FEMA relief and what the process entails.

FEMA, a division of the Department of Homeland Security, can be an intimidating bureaucracy to access; especially for immigrants, those for whom English is not a first language, or those who may live in sub-standard housing. Alderman Muñoz and Congressman Gutierrez will explain the rules and procedures and announce the help they are providing through their offices to flood victims in conjunction with FEMA officials.

Families who have already gone through the process of applying for and receiving FEMA benefits will also be on hand to relate their experiences about what the process does -- and does not -- entail. The event will be held in Piotrowski Park, in the heart of the area of Chicago most affected by the torrential rains that caused widespread flooding and damage in July of this year.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners may be eligible for FEMA disaster aid. To qualify, eligible individuals must submit the forms by October 18, 2010. Additional information can be found on the flyers below. Constituents from the 4th Congressional District are invited to reach out to the Chicago office at (773) 342-0774 with additional questions.

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