Gustav Coverage: FEMA to provide financial assistance to evacuees

Facing South previously reported on Gulf Coast advocates' campaign to demand "Cash Not Comfort" from FEMA. The Katrina Information Network reports that due to the resulting public pressure, FEMA has announced that they will be making disaster aid available to those affected by Hurricane Gustav.

The Times-Picayune reports that evacuees, property owners with damage and local governments in 30 parishes will eligible for a variety of benefits, including: reimbursement for certain evacuation expenses, including hotel rooms; rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are unlivable; grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance to make damaged dwellings safe, sanitary and functional; and a number other financial assistance packages.