Caledonia and Orange counties had been added to the list of counties in the disaster declaration

State and federal officials shared the “good news” Friday that Caledonia and Orange counties had been added to the list of counties in the disaster declaration from the historic flooding nearly two weeks ago. The officials also urged residents in the counties not yet declared to report any damage that was caused by the flooding to help affected counties reach the threshold for declaration. The disaster declaration opens residents of those counties up to FEMA assistance. The Individual Assistance program helps homeowners and renters impacted by the disaster seek reimbursement for necessary expenses and serious needs that cannot be met through insurance or other assistance. Eligible expenses include rental assistance, home repair, home replacement, and lodging, among other expenses. Besides reporting damage to the 211 services, residents should also apply to FEMA at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.