Dear Neighbor,
Hurricane Sandy has left a historic trail of devastation in her wake and New Yorker's all over are still feeling the effects of this storm. Here is some helpful information as you deal with the recovery efforts.
In order to assist you during this difficult time my District Office will have extended hours this week. You can call my office at (212) 564 -7757 or visit us at 224 West 30 Street, Suite 1206.
Residents and b usiness owners can begin the disaster application process by registering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at (800) 621-FEMA (3362) , by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov or online at www.disasterassistance.gov . For individuals with speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY , please call (800) 462-7585 or for those that use 711 or Video Rel a y service please call (800) 621-3362 . The numbers above are available from 7:00AM – 10:00PM Monday – Sunday until further notice.
For individuals who need assistance contacting or dealing with their insurance company you can call the New York State Department of Financial Services (formerly know as New York State Insurance Department) at (518) 474-4567 or (800) 686-1526 . There is also a storm assistance number, (800) 339-1759 .
The U.S. Small Business Administration has set up loan programs to help businesses in the declared disaster areas. For more information please call (800) 659-2955, (212) 264-4354, or (404) 331-0333.
The New York City Department of Small Business Services has emergency business loans available. Please visit http://www.nyc.gov/html/sbs/nycbiz/html/contact/manager.shtml .
Mid to large size businesses that need to rebuild as a result of damage from the storm can request an emergency sales tax letter from NYC IDA allowing businesses to avoid payment of NYC and NYS sales tax on materials purchased for rebuilding. This is meant for projects costing $500,000 or more. Please email Shin Mitsugi at smitsugi@nycedc.com .
The New York Business Development Corporation is providing disaster loans to businesses suffering storm or flood damage. Please visit www.nybdc.com for more information.
If you have a pet and need assistance please contact the ASPCA at (212) 876-7000 or (212) 876-7701. If you found a lost or stray animal please call 311.
If you are currently without hot water and looking for a safe and clean place to take a hot shower please call my District Office at (212) 564-7757 .
If you are a senior and need temporary housing please call my District Office at (212) 564-7757 .
If you are a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps) and lost food that was purchased with that aid then the Human Resources Administration may be able to help replace your loss. Please call (718) 557-1399.
As always please feel free to contact my office if you are in need of assistance or help navigating the multiple City and State agencies in dealing with this disaster.
Sincerely,
Christine C. Quinn Speaker
