Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available To Workers Affected By October Kenai Flood

Dec. 09, 2002
No. 02-70

Workers' Income Protected by Disaster Assistance

(Click here to read about Disaster Unemployment Assistance)

On October 23, 2002, Kenai experienced one of the worst floods in 30 years when over the course of three days, up to 15 inches of rain caused widespread damage and road washouts, prompting President Bush earlier this month to officially declare the area a disaster.

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development announced today that those living or working within the Kenai Peninsula Borough, Kodiak Island Borough; and Chignik Bay area, including Chignik Lake and Chignik Lagoon, might be able to receive Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

"Individuals impacted from the Kenai flood who are not eligible for regular unemployment benefits have until January 8, 2003 to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits," Bill Kramer, Assistant Director for Unemployment Insurance with Labor's Employment Security Division said. This includes self-employed workers and others not covered by the state unemployment insurance program, whose source of income has been negatively impacted by the flood. Flood-impacted workers may receive weekly payments of up to $248, plus dependent's allowance for up to 26 weeks.

Individuals who are out of work as a result of the flood may find out more about how to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance by calling 1-800-590-5941, or by going to labor.alaska.gov, and clicking on the Disaster Unemployment Assistance link. The last day to apply for this assistance program is January 8, 2003.

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