Disaster proclamation aids tornado recovery

June 24--BLOOMFIELD -- After Monday's tornado lifted and debris fell to a resting spot, several homeowners emerged from the safety of their basements to find their property destroyed.

Tuesday Gov. Terry Branstad issued a disaster proclamation for Davis, Humboldt, Monroe and Wright counties in response to the severe weather. This allows state resources to be utilized to recover from the severe storms that impacted the areas earlier this week as well as activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Program.

"Programs like this are important as many low-income households don't have insurance or the resources to repair or replace property when disaster strikes," said Lisa Collins of Sieda.

The Iowa Individuals Assistance Program provides grants of up to $5,000 for households with low incomes, or a maximum annual income of $40,180, for a family of three.

In the wake of the EF3 tornado that swept across the area, businesses were destroyed, homes were left without roofs and mature trees were uprooted leaving residents with a series of costly repairs.

Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food and the expense of temporary housing. In order to qualify for reimbursement for storm related expenses, those interested will need income documentation including check stubs or Federal Income Tax. If a family meets the requirements they must then get bids for repairs and fill out an application, according to Collins.

Original receipts are required for those seeking repayment, and all applications must be received by Aug. 10.

Davis County residents interested in the program can contact the Sieda Resource Center in Bloomfield at 631-664-1911. Monroe County residents seeking more information can contact South Central Iowa Community Action Program at 641-774-8133.

-- Danielle Lunsford can be reached at dlunsford@ottumwacourier.com and followed @CourierDanielle.

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