Pennsylvania seeks more federal disaster aid

SHARON, Pa. -- The state is seeking additional federal disaster aid for residents and businesses in 11 Pennsylvania counties, including Mercer and Lawrence.
Based on new information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding eligibility criteria and damages verified by FEMA, the state is asking that Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration financial assistance be made available.
David M. Sanko, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency director, said the state is targeting flooding caused by severe storms in July and August.
Sanko said the Individual Assistance program includes the Individual and Households Program for people who suffered uninsured losses. The program provides grants and low-interest loans.
Sanko said the state also wants FEMA to activate its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Small Business Administration disaster loans for the affected area.
In addition to Mercer and Lawrence, the counties of Crawford, Erie, McKean, Potter, Tioga, Venango, Warren, Wayne and Wyoming are included in the state's request.