(LANSING) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Tuesday that she is appealing the decision to deny Federal disaster assistance to counties following the March 6 tornadoes.
Whitmer says the Federal Emergency Management Agency is denying Federal disaster assistance through the Individual Assistance Program for residents of St. Joseph, Branch and Cass Counties affected by a deadly tornado outbreak that caused widespread destruction.
Whitmer says families are still recovering from the devastation caused by the tornadoes that damaged critical infrastructure, destroyed homes, and tragically claimed four lives. Whitmer says while she's disappointed that FEMA denied the request for Individual Assistance, the work is not over. She says she will keep fighting to deliver the support the residents deserve, and help affected communities recover and rebuild.
In a letter dated May 31, FEMA officials confirmed the denial of IA funding which would have provided financial support and direct services to eligible individuals and households who have sustained uninsured or underinsured losses due to damage caused by tornadoes. FEMA also denied funding through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which supports projects that help communities reduce future disaster risks and strengthen long-term resilience.
St. Joseph County Emergency Services Director Josh Shook says they appreciate Governor Whitmer's continued advocacy on behalf of the residents and communities impacted by these devastating storms. He says any additional resources that become available would be beneficial to those who continue to recover from the tornadoes.
Shook says St. Joseph County remains committed to supporting affected communities throughout the recovery process and helping residents move forward.