Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Residents of American Samoa’s capital can apply for federal help

Posted at 00:06 on 13 October, 2009 UTC

Residents of the tsunami-devastated capital of American Samoa can today apply for United States federal assistance.

Pago Pago was among the areas worst hit when the tsunami swept through almost two weeks ago.

Clint Owens reports.

“In recent days, two affected villages per day have been allowed to lodge claims with the disaster recovery centre. But the emergency operations centre says due to Pago Pago being much larger, it will be the sole village today. Officials say relief supplies are continuing to reach those in need, and many of the more than 4000 people displaced by the tsunami have returned to their villages following the provision of tents and other supplies. Health officials are also revisiting areas affected to ensure medical needs are being met.”