COLUMBUS (March 21, 2005) - Governor Bob Taft today announced that Ohioans affected by substantial damage from severe winter storms, floods and mudslides occurring between December 22, 2004 and February 1 in Ashland, Auglaize, Huron, Miami and Wyandot counties are eligible for additional assistance through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. The additional assistance follows President George W. Bush's March 18 declaration of a federal disaster for the five counties.

"I am grateful that President Bush recognizes the impact the severe weather had on these counties," said Taft. "This additional assistance providing temporary income to support laid off workers will help lessen that impact."

Eligibility for Unemployment Compensation is broadened under the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program to include people who, as a result of the disaster: no longer have a job; are unable to reach their place of employment; were to have started new employment but cannot; have become the major supporter for a household because the head of household died in the disaster; or cannot work because of injury. Self-employed individuals and farmers who are not covered by unemployment insurance may also be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits. Individuals who have exhausted unemployment eligibility may also qualify for these benefits.

Applications for these benefits may be filed by calling the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services toll-free at 1-877-644-6562 (877-OHIO-JOB) from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. Applicants should be prepared to provide a Social Security number and driver license or state ID number and the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all employers within the last 18 months. Individuals in these counties must apply by April 19.

Individuals may also be eligible for other federal programs. To learn more about available assistance, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Phone lines will be open between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday until further notice. Those with speech or hearing impairment may call TTY 1-800-462-7585. People may also register online at www.fema.gov.

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