Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for Allamakee and Winneshiek Counties in response to severe storms that occurred on August 5 and continuing. The governor's proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of this severe weather and activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and Disaster Case Advocacy Program.

The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program provides grants up to $7,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food, and temporary housing expenses. Original receipts are required for those seeking reimbursement for actual expenses related to storm recovery. The grant application and instructions are available on the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website https://homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/assistance.?Potential applicants have 45 days from the date of the proclamation to apply.

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. For information on the Disaster Case Advocacy Program, contact your local community action agency or visit?iowacommunityaction.org.   

For more information on disaster-related programs and resources available to Iowans, visit DisasterRecovery.iowa.gov. You can also find additional resources for preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery on the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Department website, Homelandsecurity.iowa.gov. Both websites offer vital information for those affected by disasters, including guidance and assistance resources.