Release Date: June 22, 2004
Release Number: 1518-032
» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Federal assistance for repairing roads, bridges and other infrastructure damaged by recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding is now available for Clay and Polk Counties. The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division (HLSEM) said applicants for such aid, called Public Assistance, are typically units of state and local government and certain private non-profit organizations.
The number of counties included in the May 25 Presidential disaster declaration remains at 65. Homeowners, renters and business owners in Clay and Polk counties were already eligible for disaster assistance under the Individual Assistance program that includes grants for home repairs and short-term rentals, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and grants for other disaster-related needs.
Iowans affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding since May 19 are encouraged to apply for assistance by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired.
The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division was known as the Iowa Emergency Management Division until July 2003. The current name reflects the dual nature of the Division to provide programs and resources for both homeland security and emergency management efforts.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 22-Jun-2004 17:08:32