Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Governor Culver Declares 5 Counties Disaster Areas
(Des Moines) Governor Chet Culver has declared Appanoose, Mahaska, Marion, Union and Wayne County a disaster area following the sever winter storm that moved across portions of Iowa.
The emergency declaration is a procedural step that allows state resources to be deployed to local communities affected by the storm.
The proclamation automatically triggers Iowa's individual disaster assistance program for people with low incomes. Iowans with household incomes of up to 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines may apply for a grant of up to $3,300 to help recover from flood damage. The Governor emphasized that this is a reimbursement program, meaning that applicants must include receipts when applying for help.
The grant application and step-by-step instructions on how to fill it out are found on the front page of the Department of Human Services website: dhs.iowa.gov. Look for the words "Storm Help,” or individuals can call toll-free (877) 937-3663 to find out more.