    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [March 12, 1995]
    [Page 333]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Disaster Assistance for California
    March 12, 1995

        Today I am declaring that a major disaster exists in California.
    Federal funds will begin to flow to the individuals and communities
    affected by this latest terrible act of nature. California has been
    badly hit by Mother Nature during the last 2 years, wildfires, the
    Northridge earthquake, January's flood, and now this flooding. But
    California has not been beaten. That is because of the great fortitude,
    spirit, and can-do attitude of its people. I saw this spirit when I
    visited the town of Roseville in January, as neighbor helped neighbor
    cope with the tragedy of destroyed homes, possessions, and livelihoods.
        I know these are difficult times for many Californians. My
    administration will do all that we can to help permit life to return to
    normalcy as soon as possible. James Lee Witt, our Federal Emergency
    Management Agency Director, has gotten all too familiar with California
    during the last 2 years. I am directing Director Witt and his staff to
    begin the flow of programs and to continue to perform its tele-
    registration and other outreach functions with the same enthusiasm and
    customer service orientation that we are now used to. I met some of
    those outreach people in January. They make us all proud.
        State and local officials are working around the clock to rescue
    victims and fight the floods. And the American Red Cross is providing
    food, comfort, and shelter to those in need. Most importantly, the
    thousands of volunteers in communities throughout California are all
    working together in this difficult time. This community spirit is truly
    the best America has to offer.
        Hillary and I send our thoughts and prayers to the families of those
    who have lost their lives. The thoughts and prayers of the American
    people are with them as well.