Mobile Governor's Cabinet in Highlands March 18, 9 am to 5 pm

On Monday, March 18th, the Christie Administration will host a Mobile Cabinet in Highlands to help residents rebuild and recover following Superstorm Sandy. All day long between the hours of 9:00am to 5:00pm, residents affected by Sandy will have access to representatives from the Departments of Banking and Insurance, Community Affairs, Environmental Protection, the Business Action Center, SBA, and FEMA to answer their questions and help resolve any issues they have.

Location: PTAK Towers Community Room 215 Shore Drive, Highlands, NJ, Street parking is available.

Middletown Schedules Sandy Resource for April 11

Middletown Township will hold a Superstorm Sandy Resource Fair on Thursday, April 11th from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Middletown VFW 2179 on Route 36 in Port Monmouth. The fair, which is being organized by the Middletown Volunteer Corps, is expected to include representatives from government agencies, non-profits, and relief organizations. Invited participants include FEMA and the SBA; the state departments of Banking and Insurance, Environmental Protection, and Community Affairs; the township’s Building and Planning Departments, Save Big Bread, Inc; and the Visiting Nurse Association. Updated information will be added to the township website at www.middletownnj.org as the event date draws closer.

April 1 Extension for Sandy Disaster Assistance Registration

New Jersey residents impacted by Superstorm Sandy now have until April 1, 2013 to register for individual disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The deadline extension applies for homeowner, renter, and business registration with the Small Business Administration (SBA) for Disaster Loan Assistance, another important step in the disaster relief process to ensure survivors obtain all relief they are eligible for.

It is crucial that individuals register with FEMA and that businesses and individuals complete the SBA loan application so State officials can continue to compile an accurate, comprehensive picture of the damage and the need for additional disaster recovery assistance. Moreover, for businesses, an SBA Disaster Loan represents the best opportunity for disaster assistance. There is no obligation to accept an SBA disaster home loan even after applying, but homeowners and renters may become eligible for additional assistance in the future.

Of note, apart from the April 1 SBA Disaster Loan deadline for property damage, businesses also have until July 31 to apply for SBA economic injury disaster loans. All homeowners, renters, and businesses are encouraged to register with FEMA and SBA to ensure eligibility for future forms of aid.

People with storm losses in all counties can register online at www.disasterassistance.gov and via smart phone or tablet here. Survivors also can register by phone or 711/VRS by calling 800-621-3362, TTY800-462-7585.