McKee Administration's Request for Disaster Declaration Relief Approved by President Biden

Funds will support impacted individuals and small businesses

PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, Governor Dan McKee announced that President Joseph Biden has approved two federal disaster declarations for the State of Rhode Island. These declarations are intended to provide support to those who were affected by severe weather and flooding events. The first declaration covers the areas that were affected from December 17 to 19, 2023, while the second one includes the communities that were affected from January 9 to 13, 2024.

President Biden's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and initiates SBA disaster assistance for businesses in the counties of Kent, Providence, and Washington. The assistance available to individuals includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and disaster legal services. SBA assistance, on the other hand, includes low-interest loans to help business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

“When severe weather strikes, it's important Rhode Islanders are not only prepared and ready to react, but know that their government stands with them," said Governor Dan McKee. “I thank President Biden and FEMA for their approval of this relief, which will help affected families and businesses who suffered losses get their lives back on track.” 

Governor McKee expressed his gratitude to President Biden and FEMA for their approval, which will provide much-needed relief to affected families and businesses. To roll out the available assistance, President Biden has appointed Robert V. Fogel as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Individuals who suffered losses in the designated areas can start applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA APP. Those who use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service, or others, should provide FEMA with the number for that service.

Businesses that were impacted by the weather events from December 17 – 19, 2023, and January 9- 13, 2024 can apply for assistance at SBA.

‌ ‌ ‌