FEMA is touring communities in southeastern South Dakota to help those affected by the spring flooding get assistance. A mobile disaster relief center is being set up in Bon Homme county this week.
FEMA has been getting the word out about the mobile disaster relief centers being set up in communities affected by this year’s extreme weather.
Most recently, they’ve opened one of these centers in at the Tabor Fire Station in Bon Homme County.
FEMA workers have also been going door-to-door to let people know that they can sign up for assistance.
Pam Saulsby is a Media Relations Specialist for FEMA. She says going door-to-door is important for making a connection with those impacted.
"Kindness, understanding, and compassion goes with this work because they’re meeting people where they are, in their homes. They’re not going to a center, they’re not talking to people over the phone, they’re right in their doorways." says Saulsby. "You know, people are vulnerable, they’ve been through a lot. They’re suffering a lot, some may even be angry at the process. So, what these specialists get to do is let people know that you’re not alone, first, and that there is hope, and that help is available after registering with FEMA for disaster assistance.”
FEMA is also warning about fraudulent door-to-door visits after someone was caught impersonating a FEMA agent and collecting social security numbers.
Saulsby warns residents of affected areas should be cautious of fraud.
"A FEMA inspector, a FEMA specialist, like those who work on our disaster assistance team, they will never ask for personal information, they will never ask for money." warns Saulsby. "They will only ask for information about the damage that was incurred.”
According to Saulsby, real FEMA workers will have badges with a gold chip.
The mobile disaster recovery center is open in Tabor through Wednesday.