Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Rapides and Winn parishes Tuesday, Sept. 22, to help Hurricane Laura survivors.
Different from the standard in-person facility, the new centers are an easy and COVID-safe way for Hurricane Laura survivors to have documents scanned into their case file. Each drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.
The centers operate under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them. No appointments are necessary. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
The drive-thru centers are located at:
Rapides Parish Winn Parish
Rapides Parish Coliseum Winn Parish Library
5600 Coliseum Blvd. 200 North Saint John St.
Alexandria, LA 71303 Winnfield, LA 71483
Additional centers are already open in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.
Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585.
- Visit disasterassistance.gov/.
- Download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.
- Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Hurricane Laura Disaster Loans
For businesses of any size and nonprofits: up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, most private nonprofits: up to $2 million for disaster working capital needs even if they had no property damage. There is a $2 million maximum business loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
For homeowners up to $200,000 to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles.mBusinesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. For questions and assistance completing an SBA application call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov.
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.