Federal Disaster Aid Approved For Creek County Wildfire Victims

Just hours after expressing frustration with the federal government's delay in approving disaster aid, Governor Mary Fallin announced Wednesday that the White House has approved the federal funds for residents and business owners in Creek County.

In a statement, Governor Fallin said she was happy that the request for Creek County was approved, but that she is still waiting for approval for the other areas which were a part of her initial request.

8/9/2012 Related Story: FEMA Begins Assessments In Creek County Wildfire Aftermath

Cleveland, Oklahoma, and Payne counties are still awaiting approval for federal aid.

Creek County residents who suffered uninsured damage are eligible for assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing, U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans, disaster unemployment assistance, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.

"Regardless of the county, those with wildfire damage to their homes or businesses should reach out to FEMA and report their losses," Fallin said. "Doing so will help to support the case for additional federal assistance for the many Oklahoma families in need."

The Governor encouraged those who have sustained wildfire damage to call 1-800-621-FEMA or go online to www.disasterassistance.gov to report their damage.