Homeowners upset over FEMA's absence at flood aid meeting in SW Houston

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Hundreds of flood victims packed an informational Monday night hoping to hear from FEMA representatives. Instead, many left frustrated.

The meeting was held at the Jewish Community Center with the intent to provide answers to the Southwest Houston residents whose homes flooded after the Memorial Day torrential downpours.

"They feel lost. They're overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task in front of them. Some have never had water in their homes," explained Lee Wunsch, CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.

Those in attendance had so many questions.

"We were just wondering if we qualified because we're renters?" asked Mary Hatch-Lewis.

"What about medical assistance?" asked Barbara Davis-Levine.

People were encouraged to report damage to the City of Houston by dialing 3-1-1 and, most importantly, to register with FEMA at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or online at www.disasterassistance.gov.

FEMA representatives were not in attendance. They arrived Monday afternoon and their first order of business Tuesday is to meet with city and county officials to decide where to place disaster recovery centers.

FEMA's absence, for some, added to their frustration.

"Everybody tells us call this guy, call this guy, call this guy. They're throwing us around like a rubber band," said Leo Steve, whose Meyerland-area home flooded.