From a press release that just came from the White House:

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by Hurricane Irene beginning on August 26, 2011, and continuing.

The disaster declaration applies to 8 counties that were the hardest hit. They are Albany, Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Schenectady, Schoharie, and Ulster. But FEMA continues to survey damage and additional counties could be added in coming days.

Under the declaration individuals are eligible to receive grants for home repairs, low-cost loans to replace uninsured property, and even money for temporary housing.

Here is the pertinent information on how to make a claim:

FEMA said that residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance tomorrow by registering online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

UPDATE:
Governor Cuomo, who requested the federal disaster declaration, responded with this statement:

“I thank President Obama for his quick action granting New York a federal disaster declaration. The damage incurred by Irene has devastated communities in counties across our State, leaving many without homes and towns and villages without essential public infrastructure. All levels of government are working together to help New York recover and we will not stop until the job is done.”

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