For Immediate Release
OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY
February 18, 2005
Statement on Federal Assistance for Territory of American Samoa
The President today declared a major disaster exists in the
Territory of American Samoa and ordered Federal aid to supplement
Territory and local recovery efforts in the area struck by Tropical
Cyclone Olaf, including high winds, high surf, and heavy rainfall,
beginning on February 15, 2005, and continuing.
The President's action makes Federal funding available to the
Territory of American Samoa and eligible local governments and certain
private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris
removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal
assistance.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for
hazard mitigation measures for the Territory of American Samoa.
Representing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and
Response, Department of Homeland Security, named Alexander S. Wells as
the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the
affected area.
The Agency said that additional forms of assistance may be made
available after conditions allow damage surveys to be completed.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: FEMA (202) 646-4600.
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