July 13, 2020 - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced on Friday, July 10th that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the State of Michigan to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding from May 18-21, 2020. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals, businesses and nonprofits in Arenac, Gladwin, Iosco, Midland and Saginaw Counties.
“Midland County is very grateful for this declaration as this funding is critical for assisting in our recovery efforts,” said Midland County Emergency Management Coordinator, Jenifer Boyer. Many families and businesses in our community have sustained huge, uninsured losses from the flooding. By providing help such as grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs, this federal funding will help us get our homes, our businesses, and our lives back in order.”
Residents seeking assistance must apply through FEMA before September 8, 2020. The information previously collected from flood victims by the County for damage reporting is not submitted to FEMA.
To register for assistance go to www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should contact 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), contact 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
County Officials are currently working with FEMA to identify a local application or drop off centers, in compliance with COVID restrictions. Until these resources are made available, residents are encouraged to apply online or over the telephone.
Resources are also available to residents, businesses and non-profits through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA offers low interest rate loans to assist with recovery with terms as long as 30 years. Go to www.SBA.gov or call 1-800-659-2955.
Residents are encouraged to stay in contact with FEMA regarding their claim as well as file an appeal if their application is declined.