Rep. Kissell Calls for Federal Assistance for Local Families Affected by Tornado
HARRISBURG, NC - Representative Larry Kissell (NC-08) today urged President Barack Obama to approve and expedite Governor Beverly Perdue's request for Small Business Administration (SBA) assistance for families affected by Saturday's tornado and severe storms.
In a letter to the President, Kissell states his support for Perdue's request for SBA assistance for displaced and affected families in Cabarrus and Mecklenburg counties, and calls on President Obama to act swiftly in approving any federal assistance to help these families in their time of need.
"The families left picking up the pieces in the wake of this devastating storm need absolutely every level of government to be by their side, giving them the tools and resources they need to keep their families safe and rebuild their lives," said Kissell. "I've met with and spoken to many of these families, and they've all shared the frighteningly similar story of their homes and property being destroyed in mere moments. It's important we have an equally prompt response in supporting them in this time, and I hope federal assistance can be expedited and be immediately on its way to those affected. My district offices will continue to help victims of this storm, and I will keep members of my staff in the affected areas to assist in any possible way we can as the assessment and determinations move forward."
Kissell toured ravaged neighborhoods in his district with Harrisburg Mayor Tim Hagler on Saturday afternoon, and spoke with Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx about assistance for affected neighborhoods in East Charlotte.
"Mayor Hagler and his team in Harrisburg have done a phenomenal job with immediate emergency response to this tragic storm, as has Mayor Foxx in Charlotte," added Kissell. "Officials at the local and county level have done a wonderful job of keeping people informed and our community has immediately stepped up to provide displaced families with items they'll need as we work to rebuild these homes and lives left behind by this destructive storm. I'll continue to make sure that folks at the Federal level know of the needs here on the ground and will continue to do all I can for those affected."
Victims of the tornado and devastating storm are urged to contact the office of Wayne Goodwin, North Carolina’s Insurance Commissioner, on a toll-free number at 1-800-546-5664. Goodwin has assigned Deputy Commissioner Bob Lisson as a point of contact for all affected, and has deployed a team to assist with assessments. Kissell's Concord District office can be reached at 704-786-1612 for anyone seeking additional information.
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Attached: Full text of Kissell’s letter to President Obama.
