Federal assistance available to help cover damage from January storms

Piedmont residents who experienced property damage from the January storms may be eligible for federal support to help pay for storm-related costs that were not covered by insurance. Alameda County was recently added to the “major disaster” declaration for California’s severe storms and flooding. The declaration allows FEMA and the Small Business Administration to provide direct support to individuals and businesses in Alameda County.

FEMA grants are available for:

Up to $37,900 for property damage to a primary residence

Up to $37,900 for other needs, such as a hotel stay while displaced, funds to replace damaged items, and increases to childcare or medical expenses during the storms

Loans for storm relief are also available to homeowners, renters, and businesses through the federal Small Business Administration. These loans can be paid off over thirty years and can have interest limits as low at 4 percent. Loan types include:

Homeowners: Up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence

Renters/Homeowners: Up to $40,000 to replace or repair personal property, like clothing, furniture, cars, or appliances

Businesses: Up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations or operating expenses that would have been avoided had the disaster not happened.

Apply online, by phone, or in person

Applications are due by March 16. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at an Alameda County
Disaster Recovery Center.
• Online: The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone: Call 1-800-621-3362
Those who would like extra assistance with their application can get help in-person at one of two Disaster
Recovery Centers in Alameda County.
• 7001 Oakport Street (off 66th Avenue) Oakland
• 4825 Gleason Drive, Dublin
Disaster Recovery Centers at open 10am-7pm daily through February 24, 2023. Staff at Disaster Recovery Centers may also be able to connect residents to State and County support resources in addition to federal assistance. Translation services are available.

Applying does not guarantee that assistance with be awarded.

Leave a Reply

The Exedra comments section is an essential part of the site. The goal of our comments policy is to help ensure it is a vibrant yet civil space. To participate, we ask that Exedra commenters please provide a first and last name. Please note that comments expressing congratulations or condolences may be published without full names. (View our full Comments Policy.)

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *