Tuesday, Jul 9 2013 3:33PM

Alaskans impacted by flooding may be eligible for disaster relief.

Alaskans who were impacted by the recent flooding of the Yukon River may be eligible for federal disaster assistance, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced.

Residents are just now able to return to Galena, Alaska, but most of the rural town is still underwater. Although electricity and cellphone services are up and running, water system services and wastewater services are only available behind one of the town's levees, according to The Associated Press. However, HUD said it plans to expedite aid to residents, and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters who were forced to leave their homes during the catastrophe.

"Families who may have been forced from their homes need to know that help is available to begin the rebuilding process," said Secretary Shaun Donovan. "Whether it's foreclosure relief for FHA-insured families or helping these counties to recover, HUD stands ready to help in any way we can."

The agency is providing foreclosure relief to residents, opening up mortgage insurance to facilitate the rebuilding process and offering government loans for repairs, construction and economic community development.

Currently, many of the residents who were forced to evacuate are now residing in dormitories at the Galena Interior Learning Academy or in the second-story of their homes while they work to remove water from the first level, the AP reports.

For more information, check out these resources: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, The Associated Press