AUGUSTA – Residents in Oxford County will now be able to file for federal assistance for damage sustained in the Patriot’s Day rainstorm.

Gov. John Baldacci announced Thursday morning that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved direct individual assistance grants for storm victims in Knox, Lincoln, Oxford and Sagadahoc counties. Residents in York and Cumberland counties became eligible May 9.

“This is good news for the people who were hurt by the Patriot’s Day storm,” Baldacci said. “Recovery from a major storm like the one Maine endured takes time.”

Thirteen Maine counties have qualified for federal assistance and six have qualified for individual assistance from the FEMA. The assistance may be used for temporary housing, repairs and for disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs.

FEMA assistance does not typically cover the entire cost to repair storm damage. For people with insurance, the aid may help pay for basic needs not covered by insurance.

Individuals may begin the application process by calling 1-800-621-3362; 1-800-462-7585 (TYY). Individuals can also register at www.fema.gov.