ATTN: Community Calendar Editor – Time Sensitive Material

If you're having trouble getting back-on-track after the recent storm, you are not alone. Many Southwest Washington residents are starting to feel frustrated and anxious over the disruptions caused by the December storm. These feelings are normal, according to staff from Washington State's Disaster Outreach Services, an emergency support program run through the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in conjunction with local agencies. If you feel "stuck" and need help moving forward with solutions, Disaster Outreach Services can assist. Services include help with information, resources, referrals, and other affordable solutions. DSHS also encourages all residents affected by the storm to fill out a FEMA loan application and register with that agency immediately, whether or not you think you are eligible, as getting paperwork filed with FEMA before the deadline could be helpful in the long term. The deadline to register is February 7, 2008. For assistance, call Disaster Outreach Services at 1-800-850-8775.