Michigan residents have been waiting months to finally hear the news that help is on the way. Federal officials have finally approved assistance to over 90,000 residents of Michigan that have been affected by the floods that damaged thousands of homes in late summer of this year.
Record rainfall came hard on Metro Detroit, with flooding levels reaching over 4 inches in some areas. Along with homes and basements flooding, vehicles were destroyed and freeways were in shambles. The entirety of the damages across the one-day disaster was catastrophic for many, while most were without any type of personal flooding insurance.
Thankfully, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has allocated over $110 million in aid for flooding damages. The disaster assistance is in conjunction with the $63.5 million granted to Michigan residents from FEMA for disaster relief. FEMA is additionally working with cities and counties individually to assess damages on a municipal level.
However, the window for applying for federal assistance is small. With a closing date of November 24th, federal officials urge residents to sign up quickly, and not let this opportunity pass. Both FEMA and the Federal Small Business Association will evaluate all applications, to ensure that residents receive the appropriate amount necessary for their flooding damages.
Michigan State Police Capitan, Chris Kelenske, is personally pressing Michigan residents to sign up soon. He explains that with the holidays approaching around the corner, time can quickly pass by, and residents should take advantage of this opportunity. FEMA officials are also pushing residents to apply for these federal grants, as they are not awarded lightly.
Those living in Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland counties are able to apply for grants towards their home repairs, including personal property loss, and other expenses that were not granted under their personal insurance coverage. Small personal loans will also be awarded to those who qualify, and can earn up to $200,000, per household. For those looking to replace property, such as vehicles, loans up to $40,000 will also be granted. Business can benefit from the $2 million set aside to assist with their damages, and can potentially seek assistance from capital loans.
If you are one of the thousands of Michigan residents looking to apply for these federal grants and loans, visit www.disasterassistance.gov, and fill out a registration form today. Likewise, call (800) 621-3362 (800-462-7585 for TTY), or (800) 621-3362 for those using Relay Services. FEMA guided assistance is available to residents every day, from 7 -11.