Washington, DC -- Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) convinced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to delay a proposed plan to close the Rockland Disaster Recovery Center this weekend.  That closing would have coincided with Yom Kippur, the highest holy day of the Jewish faith.

“I contacted FEMA and urged them to rethink the plan.  As a result, FEMA responded and informed me that the center will remain open through at least Monday (October 10); allowing Rockland residents who have not already sought FEMA assistance to file their claims without infringing upon their religious obligations.  The center will close at some point next week, so please make sure your claims are filed.  The center is located at 1 Provident Bank Park Drive in Pomona where FEMA representatives will assist in helping Rockland residents in their recovery efforts from Hurricane Irene and the subsequent floods.

“FEMA has assured me that they will give a 72-hour notice before the office will permanently close.  I encourage anyone in need of FEMA assistance to go the center as soon as they can.  If you need any other assistance, feel free to contact my district office, located in West Nyack – 845-735-1000.  You can reach FEMA at their toll free number – 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).”

###