Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for ten counties impacted by severe weather, including Benton County.
Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for ten counties in response to the March 5 severe weather. The governor's proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of this severe weather in Adair, Benton, Decatur, Jasper, Lucas, Madison, Polk, Tama, Warren, and Wayne counties. In response to the governor's proclamation, the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program (IIAGP) and the Iowa Disaster Case Management program(IDCM) have been activated.
The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program(IIAGP) provides grants of up to $5,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Covered items include 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. For Benton County residents, applications are available at the HACAP, North Benton Center located at 202 East 4th St., Vinton, IA 52349 or at the Iowa Department of Human Services website https://dhs.iowa.gov/disaster-assistance-programs. Potential applicants have 45 days from the proclamation date to submit a claim.
The Iowa Disaster Case Management (IDCM) program addresses serious needs to overcome a disaster-related hardship, injury, or adverse conditions. Disaster case managers work with clients to create a disaster recovery plan and provide guidance and referrals. There are no income eligibility requirements for Disaster Case Management, and Disaster Case Management provides no direct financial assistance. Disaster Case Management closes 180 days from the disaster proclamation.
Individuals needing direct assistance in the HACAP service area of Benton County should contact John Regan or Michele Lerch. For all other counties, please contact your local community action association or visit the Iowa Community Action Association.
John Regan
319.739.1521ext 1070
jregan@hacap.org
Michele Lerch
319.550.7294 ext 1007
