HARRISBURG - Governor Edward G. Rendell today said a Federal Disaster Declaration will help homeowners, renters and businesses in five Pennsylvania counties recover from disaster damages as a result of heavy rain and flooding beginning on June 23.

President George W. Bush and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designated Monroe, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties for disaster assistance, qualifying residents and businesses in those counties for Individual Assistance.

"The President's approval clears the way for many Pennsylvanians to get the help they need after their homes were devastated by floods," said Governor Rendell. "We encourage uninsured and under-insured Pennsylvanians in those five counties to call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go on-line at www.fema.gov/assistance/index.shtm and apply for disaster assistance."

The Individual Assistance program provides grants to eligible individuals for temporary housing, home repair, home replacement and permanent housing construction. Other damages are also eligible under FEMA's Individuals and Households Program.

Staff from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and FEMA will work with county officials to set up Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in various locations throughout the affected areas. DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster related questions, getting help filling out forms and gathering more information about what assistance is available. While visiting a DRC is not necessary, it is imperative that residents applying for disaster assistance call FEMA's toll-free number or register on-line.

Governor Rendell said he will push for more counties to be added to the disaster declaration to help all Pennsylvanians in need. The governor added that he appreciates the hard work and dedication of local and state officials, volunteers and county personnel, and PEMA staff who were able to document the extent of loss that was necessary to secure the federal funding.

State, local and federal officials continue to conduct damage assessments in the counties that were requested for disaster assistance. Additional flood safety information and weather updates can be found at www.PAFLOODING.state.pa.us