Governor Gretchen Whitmer has sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting a Major Disaster Declaration and activation of the federal individual assistance programs for Branch, Cass, Kalamazoo, and St. Joseph counties following an assessment of damage to the area.
The governor requested the declaration after four tornadoes and severe storms caused massive damage across the affected counties on May 7.
“Michiganders across Southwest Michigan have been devastated by four tornadoes and severe storms, with many losing their homes and businesses,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m requesting a presidential disaster declaration so we can deliver critical financial assistance to support families, businesses, and communities as they recover and rebuild. Michiganders are resilient. We will get through this together, just as we always have.”
Members of Congress representing the affected areas echoed the governor’s push for additional Federal benefits.
“On May 7, communities across southwest Michigan were impacted by severe storms and tornadoes,” said U.S. Senator Gary Peters. “Our state and local first responders were quick to assist communities in need, but now the federal government should provide the emergency assistance needed to help those who are working to get back on their feet and recover from damages. I urge the President to swiftly issue a Major Disaster declaration so that our communities have the necessary resources to rebuild after these storms.”
“Southwest Michigan was significantly damaged by the tornados that struck the region in May,” said U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga. “While our communities are resilient, and neighbors have rallied to help those impacted by these terrible storms, it is clear there is a role for the federal government to play in supporting recovery efforts. I am hopeful the Biden Administration will respond swiftly to this request.”
The severe thunderstorms and tornadoes that struck the southwest part of the state, resulted in a number of injuries and caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
The governor has already declared a state of emergency for the impacted counties, directing state departments and agencies to use all available state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
FEMA will review Governor Whitmer’s request and make a recommendation to the president. The president will then decide whether to declare a major disaster and grant this federal aid.
