Center City FEMA Disaster Recovery Center to close Friday

After hurricane Irene and Tropical storm Lee, the Federal Emergency Management Agency got to work in Philadelphia County, helping residents with disaster aid. Now, FEMA plans to close one of its two Disaster Recovery Centers in Philadelphia due to diminishing activity.The center at 15th and Sansom streets in Center City will close Friday, while the Belfield recreation center location in Olney will remain open. “We have no closure date for that one that remains open or for the 17 others that remain open around the state,” said Eugene Brezany, FEMA spokesman.

He said people can continue to file applications for aid at their closest center until November 14. “At least get in to our system before November 14,” said Brezany, “because after that, we may not be able to provide the assistance that is deserving to those people who are injured by these floodings.” Around 30 percent of applications for aid in Philadelphia County have been accepted so far, totaling over $20 million. On average, each grant runs around $2,000.