The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division (HSEMD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have announced that Clayton County is eligible for federal Individual Assistance, as well as federal Public Assistance to repair public infrastructure. As a result, Joint federal and state disaster assessments are on-going throughout the County.

Homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the severe storms and/or flooding that began May 25 are now eligible to register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for those with hearing or speech impairment, or online at www.fema.gov. These toll-free numbers are now operating 24 hours, seven days a week.

In addition, local governments and certain non-profit organizations in the County are now eligible to apply for federal Public Assistance funds to pay 75 percent of the approved cost of debris removal, emergency services relate to the disaster, and repairing or replacing damaged public facilities such as roads, buildings and utilities. A series of applicant briefings to explain the public assistance application process will be held for local officials at a date and time yet to be determined.

SBA is the federal government's primary source of financial assistance (i.e., low interest loans) for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private non-profit organizations fund repairs or rebuilding efforts, and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover uninsured and uncompensated losses and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations. For information about SBA programs, applicants may call 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339).

Note, disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race,
color, sex, religion, nationality, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you known has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY Call 800-462-7585.