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Klobuchar Announces Individual Disaster Assistance for 4 Minnesota Counties

April 10, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Continuing her push to urge Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) officials to expedite consideration of Minnesota’s request for federal disaster assistance in areas affected by flood waters, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that President Obama has granted Minnesota’s request for individual disaster assistance for four Minnesota counties:  Clay, Norman, Traverse and Wilkin.  

“Our local officials, first responders, citizens and volunteers have done tremendous work in fighting back the flood waters and it is vital that our communities have the full resources of the federal government to help rebuild and recover,” said Klobuchar.  “Now, with this assistance, families and individuals can begin working to repair and rebuild damaged homes and businesses."

The request for individual assistance for Kittson, Marshall and Polk Counties remains pending before FEMA. “I will continue to press for federal assistance for all areas affected by this flooding,” said Klobuchar. “With more flooding possible, we must make sure we have all available resources to protect and rebuild our communities as soon as possible.”

With this declaration, the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may now provide assistance including temporary housing, home repair or home replacement, and services such as medical, dental, funeral assistance, moving, storage, crisis counseling, and legal services.  In addition, disaster unemployment assistance is available to those who do not qualify for other unemployment compensation such as the self-employed, farmers and seasonal workers.  Finally, with this declaration, the Small Business Administration may provide low-interest loans for physical damage to businesses and economic injury (capital assistance).

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