The Foundation for Financial Planning has awarded a
$100,000 emergency grant to the Financial Planning Association for the
creation of hurricane relief services.
The FPA has been active in providing pro bono
financial planning services since it created a help center for the
victims of the September 11 attacks and is poised to do the same for
victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Two task forces have been created to implement
outreach efforts for both the public and for advisors displaced by the
storm.
The FPA says it has opened a location in Shreveport, La., where CFP's
will be offering pro bono services to evacuees and residents in that
area.
The type of help offered will include:
Assistance in the filing of insurance claims
Household budgeting tips
Determining eligibility for unemployment compensation
Providing guidance in working with creditors and mortgage companies.
The service is available by appointment only and
those who are interested may schedule a time to meet with a CFP by
calling (318) 221-7549.
"As we've seen in our work with past disasters, such
as the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the 2004 wildfires in
California, many victims desperately need the assistance and advice of
a Certified Financial Planner professional," says FPA President James
A. Barnash. "A financial planner can help hurricane victims file
insurance claims for lost/damaged homes, apply for grants, and
determine how to allocate insurance settlements to help recover/rebuild
and address cash flow issues during relocation and rebuilding."