QUINCY, W.Va. — For those unable to find temporary housing as they rebuild from last month’s flood, FEMA unveiled temporary mobile homes in eastern Kanawha County Thursday.
About a dozen mobile homes were lined up, which can be used for up to 18 months in Greenbrier and Kanawha counties.
“This is housing of last resort,” said FEMA Public Information Officer Bob Howard. “What we’re trying to do is get people into more permanent housing, either rental units or other long term housing while they’re repairing and rebuilding their homes. As has been identified in those two counties, there’s a shortage of rental units.”
The homes were available in one, two and three bedroom units, as well as accessible units for those who are disabled.
“The first thing we’re trying to do is encourage people to find housing,” Howard said. “There is a housing website that people can go on and check on that. Then we look at other options in the area; local hotels; these kinds of things.”
Howard explained that even if the mobile units are being used long term, FEMA would still keep tabs on the rebuild of the residents’ homes.
“People are evaluated on a regular basis what’s the progress on rebuilding their home, what’s their recovery plan. But it can extend up to 18 months.”
For those still looking for flood relief assistance, Howard said the first step is to register with FEMA online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.