More than $1 million paid to flood victims

AUGUSTA – The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Maine Emergency Management Agency say more than $1 million has been paid to individuals after May flooding.

President Bush issued a major disaster declaration for Aroostook and Penobscot counties. That means individuals are eligible for help in those two counties.

Officials say $677,226 has been approved for rental assistance, temporary lodging and grants for home repairs not covered by insurance. In addition, $132,387 was approved for personal property loss, medical or dental costs and other significant flood-related expenses.

The U.S. Small Business Administration also has approved low-interest disaster loans totaling more than $251,000 for homeowners, businesses and renters.