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President Approves Request For Disaster Declaration In Flood Damaged Counties

(MPRN-Lansing) People in four Michigan counties can now ask the federal government for disaster assistance. That’s after severe storms caused flood damage to Mid-Michigan in June. 

People in Bay, Gladwin, Isabella and Midland counties can apply for things like small business loans and grants to help meet medical needs not covered by insurance.

“You know, unfortunately, with disaster recovery we aren’t always made whole,”

said Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Captain Chris Kelenske.

"But this is definitely a step in the right direction to help the citizens affected and the state recover from this.”

Congressman John Moolenaar represents the region. He said the declaration will help families and businesses recover from the natural disaster.

“It provides opportunities for people to literally dig out and get their lives back on track and it’s a recognition of the seriousness of the situation,” he said.

Other programs include rental payments for temporary housing, crisis counseling, unemployment aid and grants for home repairs, and help with filing for casualty losses.

Communities anywhere in Michigan can now also apply for assistance to help reduce the risk of future natural disaster damage. This can include moving homes and businesses out of flood zones.

Kelenske said this funding will help protect against Mother Nature.

“She has an interesting way of showing us where homes or businesses should not be,” he said.

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