Mr. Feinberg was asked specifically about nonprofits and how BP might provide restitution for increased demand on services causing increased drain on resources. His response suggested that BP is not intending to reimburse nonprofits for incurred expenses related to the oil spill. He also indicated that claims for mental anguish, stress, and other mental health issues were not claims that will be reimbursed by BP.

What was also announced is that any businesses able to demonstrate a loss as a result of the oil spill, should obtain a claim number and provide documentation to receive reimbursement. Nonprofits are businesses as well and it is the opinion of the Mississippi Center for Nonprofits that charitable organizations that have experienced exceptional financial loss due to increased demand for services by clients due to the oil spill should obtain a claim number and prepare the appropriate documentation. The information for the claim cannot be speculative and must clearly demonstrate increased financial burden or loss of income as a result of the oil spill. For example, client intake or other forms that indicate new clients needing clothing, food, or rental assistance because of the oil spill could document such an increase in demand above the normal demand for this time of year.

For information about the claims process, please click here to read and download documents.

The Mississippi Center for Nonprofits will be sending another survey soon to capture data on the impact of the oil spill on our nonprofits along the Gulf Coast.

For more information about the Gulf Coast Oil Spill and to find out how you can help
click here