Georgetown switches Operating Conditions to normal, disaster recovery centers opening

Georgetown County officials moved Operating Conditions to normal as flood cleanup continues, and two new Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster recovery centers are opening Sunday.

“We’re knee-deep in the recovery process, and FEMA should have things up and running soon as we get back to a new normal,” Sam Hodge, Georgetown Emergency Management director said.

County officials shifted Operating Conditions to level 5 at 5 p.m. Thursday, meaning they are at normal operating status as flood recovery is now fully the focus instead of response, and cleanup is well underway.

The new FEMA are spurring improvement by helping flood survivors get assistance, officials said.

One center was working on getting things up and going on Saturday at Potato Bed Ferry Community Center at 531 Big Dam Swamp Dr. in Andrews.

Another center is opening at Beck Recreation Center at 2030 Church St. in Georgetown.

Once operating, the disaster recovery centers will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice, officials said.

Additionally, a mobile disaster recovery center that opened more than a week ago at 1295 N. Fraser Street in Georgetown, in front of the Tractor Supply Co., will keep operating until Sunday and will close after operations at the Beck Recreation Center are up and running.

“We’re trying to get everyone the resources and support they need as they start the rebuilding process,” Hodge said.

The centers offer a place where flood survivors can meet with representatives from the S.C. Emergency Management Division, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other agencies about disaster assistance programs and how to apply for aid.

Flood-affected residents are asked to register with FEMA before visiting a center, and registration can be done online or by phone.

Federal assistance may include money for temporary rental support and essential home repairs for primary residences not covered by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans from the Small Business Administration may also be available to those who qualify.

Georgetown County officials will also have a presence at these centers aiding flood victims.

In addition to FEMA, many volunteers from various organizations are on the ground in Georgetown helping the flood-affected.

“We have a lot of faith-based organizations and nonprofits out there helping to provide the services and support people need,” Hodge said.

To register with FEMA online visit http://www.disasterassistance.gov or call (800) 621-3362. Help is available in most languages and phone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Disaster survivors who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call (800) 462-7585.

This story was originally published October 24, 2015 at 11:42 AM with the headline "Georgetown switches Operating Conditions to normal, disaster recovery centers opening."