President Approves $4 Billion FEMA Aid for Iowa Disaster Relief

Iowa's News Now reports that on Monday morning President Trump approved the Emergency Disaster Declaration submitted by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds on Sunday August 16.

This will provide about $4 billion in FEMA aid for infrastructure and people whose lives have been severely impacted by the Derecho thunderstorm that struck parts of Eastern Iowa including Cedar Rapids last Monday.

According to Iowa's News Now

Homeowners and businesses in counties currently included under the state declaration will have access to funds to pay for things like housing assistance, personal property replacement, medical expenses and legal services through FEMA's Individual Assistance Program.

The President is said to be considering a visit to Iowa to inspect the damage. Over the weekend several Iowa lawmakers made appearances in Cedar Rapids to see the storm's impact and to show their support for federal assistance.

About one third of Iowa's crop of corn and soybeans have been damaged across the state. Many people are still without power after 7 days, but utility crews working round the clock to complete repairs. Crews from Alliant Energy, ITC and Mid American have been joined by dozens of out-of-state line workers who have sped up the repairs and helped restore power for thousands more in recent days.

Local charitable organizations and community groups have teamed with area businesses to provide free food, water and shelter for many displaced families, but many are still finding it difficult to cope with the losses. Use our mobile app for news and local updates.