Chinchilla, PA – Individuals and families affected by the recent flooding in Lackawanna County will be able to visit dozens of state and local agency staff at a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC), that Pennsylvania state agencies will be opening in coordination with Lackawanna County to provide in-person disaster recovery services. Governor Shapiro has directed Commonwealth agencies to work with the County and provide any assistance needed to impacted Pennsylvanians.
“The impacts of severe thunderstorms and the resulting flooding can be catastrophic for many families,” said PEMA Director Randy Padfield. “While these individuals are embarking on what will be a lengthy recovery process, the Shapiro Administration will continue to provide the resources and support this community needs. The standing up of the MARC lets these families cut through red tape and get quick access to a variety of state resources.”
Community members will be able to meet with agency staff and local officials in person to get the help they need, including information about submitting insurance claims, the replacement of vital documents, and access to crisis counseling services.
The following state agencies will be on hand, as well as a variety of other local, county and volunteer agencies:
• The Office of the Attorney General will provide information to help residents avoid fraud and scams.
• The Department of Health will provide post-flooding safety guidance and information and can also assist with replacement of lost birth and death certificates.
• The Department of Human Services will provide information on benefit replacement, crisis counseling and disability integrations.
• The Pennsylvania Insurance Department will answer questions and assist with insurance resources, including facilitating contact with insurance carriers.
• The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency will provide recovery and National Flood Insurance Program information.
The MARC will be open to the public, Thursday, Sept. 21 through Saturday, Sept 23. Hours of operation are Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The event will be held at the Chinchilla Hose Company, located at 113 Shady Land Rd in South Abbington Township, PA 1841. Signage will be posted during hours operation directing visitors where to park and where the MARC is located on the property.