Despite a recent uptick of spam calls in Mississippi, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is asking residents in Jackson and Jasper counties who applied for disaster assistance to answer their phones — even if the call is from an unknown number.
FEMA is notifying assistance seekers that they will be the recipient of at least one phone call from an unknown number.
After a person applies, a federal inspector will call the individual to schedule a home inspection and also ask questions about the resident’s application.
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FEMA inspectors and assistance specialists will leave voicemail messages. Applicants are encouraged to listen to those messages and follow the instructions.
Those leery of an unknown number can contact FEMA’s helpline at (800)621-3362 to verify the legitimacy of a phone call. Anyone who has not applied for assistance, but receives a call from someone claiming to be from FEMA is urged to report the call to the agency as well as local authorities.
Homeowners and renters affected by the June severe storms and tornadoes can apply for assistance for uninsured losses. They may be eligible for grants for basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses. They can apply here.
