The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has opened a disaster recover center in Middletown  to help those impacted by Hurricane Sandy.

Located at 132 Valley Road, Middletown, the Newport County site is one of three to open in southern Rhode Island; the other two are in South Kingstown and Westerly

People needing assistance should register with FEMA by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov or calling 1-800-621-FEMA.  “These Disaster Recovery Centers can be a real help in providing face-to-face assistance.  But registering online with FEMA before you show up will help streamline the process,” said Senator Jack Reed who announced the opening.

The centers will be staffed by FEMA and other agencies to assist individuals and explain FEMA and Small Business Administration programs that are available .

There are several categories of assistance available:

•  Rental payments for temporary housing.

•  Grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items that are not covered by insurance. Grants also can be used to help meet medical, dental, funeral, transportation and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other federal, state, and charitable aid programs.

To date, only Newport County and Washington County residents are eligible.  Residents of these counties may apply for FEMA assistance by phone: 1-800-621-3362 or via the web at : www.disasterassistance.gov

Those wishing to meet with FEMA representatives in person are asked

Richard W. Dionne Jr.

During the height of the storm, owner and friends struggle to adjust the lines of a fishing boat in Sakonnet Harbor.

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