Tuesday, March 06, 2007
State Launches $1M Storm Grant Program
DES MOINES, Iowa—Low-income Iowans may now apply for state grants of up to $3,319 to replace storm-caused losses under legislation signed by Gov. Chet Culver.
“We’re keeping red tape to a minimum since we want to get help to people in need as quickly as possible,” the governor said.
Legislation requested and signed by the governor in the wake of severe weather in late February enables the governor, by declaring a weather disaster, to launch a special $1 million state assistance program.
Applications may be completed by households whose annual income is 130 percent or less of federal poverty guidelines, which is $13,273 for a single individual, $17,797 for a family of two and $26,845 for a family of four.
An application form with instructions is available on the front page of the Department of Human Services website or applicants may go to any county office of the Iowa Department of Human Services or to any county emergency management office.
The Iowa Department of Human Services has set up a toll free hotline (866-434-4692) for those with questions.
Applicants must provide receipts for qualifying uninsured expenses. Here are examples of reimbursable expenses:
- Up to $1,000 will be available to reimburse storm-caused expenses for making the dwelling safe, sanitary, and secure.
- Up to $300 for an electrician to help bring power back to a dwelling.
- Up to $560 will be available for storm-related damage to appliances or food.
- Up to $425 for purchase and installation of a water heater.
- Up to $500 for damage to a vehicle.
- Up to $50 a day for lodging or rental expenses in case the storm forced residents to leave their homes.
The total award provided to a household will not exceed $3,319. Generators are not covered by the program.
Completed applications will be taken to the county emergency management coordinator. A list of county emergency management offices is available at the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management website. Look for the Iowa Assistance Program link on the front page.
Applicants must indicate that their household income meets the income eligibility test. Income includes wages, child support, retirement income, and Social Security.