Thursday, December 13, 2007
Disaster Emergency Proclamation Now Includes Total of 22 Counties
(Des Moines) Today, Governor Chet Culver has proclaimed 18 additional counties disaster areas following Monday’s winter storm that paralyzed parts of Iowa. Counties included in the latest disaster proclamation are: Adams, Clarke, Davis, Decatur, Fremont, Jefferson, Keokuk, Linn, Lucas, Monroe, Page, Ringgold, Taylor, Union, Van Buren, Wapello, Warren, and Washington. On Wednesday, December 12, 2007, Governor Culver proclaimed Appanoose, Mahaska, Marion and Wayne counties disaster areas.
Issuing an emergency proclamation is a procedural step that allows state resources to be deployed to local communities affected by the storm.
The proclamation makes available 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 storm 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.