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FEMA Steps Up Storm Relief Efforts In Mass.

Federal officials continue to encourage Massachusetts residents to register for disaster assistance after record-breaking rainfall in March and April flooded homes across the state.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has opened two new centers in Hyde Park and North Attleborough this week to help residents apply for government help. The two centers join five already in operation around the state.

Chris Perez runs the new Disaster Recovery Center in Hyde Park. He says some flood victims have been reluctant to seek help from the government.

"Either people don't believe they had enough damage, or they think they can take care of it on their own," Perez said.

Oftentimes, Perez said, people don't even realize they're eligible for help. "A lot of it is misinformation, or people not knowing what we provide."

Perez says residents and business should apply for assistance, no matter how little damage they've incurred.

"We want people to come in so we can let them know, they've got nothing to lose. You're getting a free inspection, too, if you've got a home," Perez said.

Flood victims can get everything from housing to help applying for low-interest loans at one of FEMA'S Disaster Recovery Centers.

Residents can also apply for assistance online at disasterassistance.gov. The application deadline is the end of May.

This program aired on April 29, 2010. The audio for this program is not available.

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