Winnebago County receives state disaster declaration in response to storms earlier this week

DES MOINES — Winnebago County is among three counties that Governor Reynolds has made a disaster proclamation for in response to severe weather earlier this week.

Reynolds’ proclamation also covers Chickasaw and Winneshiek counties in northeast Iowa. It allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of severe weather and flooding that occurred on August 17th. The proclamation activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy program.

The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program provides grants up to $7,000 for households with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of personal property or food, and temporary housing expenses. Original receipts are required for those seeking reimbursement for actual expenses related to storm recovery.

The Disaster Case Advocacy Program addresses serious needs related to disaster-related hardship, injury, or adverse conditions. Disaster case advocates work with clients to create a disaster recovery plan and provide guidance, advice, and referrals to obtain a service or resource. There are no income eligibility requirements for this program; it closes 180 days from the date of the governor’s proclamation.

The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program application, along with its instructions, as well as information on the Disaster Case Advocacy Program, can be found on the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s website.