Washington, DC - Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today applauded President Barack Obama’s major disaster declaration for South Jersey following severe storms that struck June 23, 2015. 

The action means federal funds will be made available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help South Jersey towns repair damage left in the aftermath of the storms. Local communities may also use the money to recoup funds used to pay for municipal worker overtime in the wake of the storms to clean-up debris and protect residents from weather-related hazards.

“This is another vital step in the recovery efforts that are still underway in Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, and Atlantic Counties. Snapped trees and branches still litter the region as reminders of that terrifying summer night,” said Rep. Norcross.

The mayor of hard hit Greenwich Township, Gloucester County, George W. Shivery, issued this statement to the office of Rep. Norcross upon learning of the disaster declaration: “Outstanding. It’s great news. We sure can use the help. And I thank Congressman Norcross for all his help with this effort.”

The June 23rd storms packed straight line winds up to 85 mph in some areas, leaving widespread destruction across South Jersey estimated at $15 million. More than 300,000 people lost electricity, some for nearly a week. Power crews from across New Jersey were assisted by out-of-state utility teams who worked around the clock to restore electricity.