WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) announced today that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded the Southern Maryland Electrical Coop (SMECO) over $4 million in federal funding to help cover the cost of local recovery efforts following Hurricane Irene.

“I am pleased SMECO has been awarded FEMA funding to assist our community in recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Irene,” said Congressman Hoyer. “Hurricane Irene had a tremendous impact throughout Southern Maryland, damaging our infrastructure and leaving tens of thousands of residents without power. This funding will help our community recover some of the costs associated with restoring power to our homes and businesses.”

The grants announced today will benefit all three counties in Southern Maryland. FEMA awarded SMECO $1.14 million in Charles County, $1.19 million in Calvert County, and $1.73 million in St. Mary’s County.

For more information on Maryland’s recovery following Hurricane Irene, click here.